Princess Beatrice turns 38 today, but the past year has been marked by turmoil, including revelations about her parents' association with Jeffrey Epstein, her father's arrest, and controversy over her rent-free London apartment.
Epstein Files and Family Turmoil
Beatrice and her sister Eugenie were named in documents released by the US State Department in January, with suggestions they accompanied their mother, Sarah Ferguson, to meet Epstein in 2009, days after his release from prison. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by either sister.
Her father, the former Duke of York, was stripped of royal titles, evicted from Royal Lodge, and arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on his 66th birthday. Her mother has been largely out of sight, with only one public sighting since last September.
Expert Advice on Rent
In June, it emerged that Beatrice, who is not a working royal, pays no rent for her apartment in St James's Palace, with the Privy Purse covering the cost. Former minister Norman Baker called it a 'sweetheart deal'. Royal expert Jennie Bond advised Beatrice to either give up the apartment or pay market rent.
Bond told the Mirror: "In my opinion, she would be wise to either give up her apartment at St James’s Palace or make it known that she had opted to pay a market rent. The easiest option is probably to rent another London base privately."
Public Appearances and Popularity
Beatrice has kept a low profile, skipping events like Easter at Windsor and Royal Ascot. She did attend Peter Phillips's wedding in June, where she was greeted by Prince William. Bond noted this showed continued support from the King and wider family.
An opinion poll last week suggested her approval rating had dropped from 37% to 24%. However, there has been a bright spot: Eugenie welcomed a third child, a daughter, making Beatrice an aunt again.
Personal Life and Work
Beatrice lives with her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and their daughters Sienna and Athena, along with his son Wolfie, in a £3.5 million Cotswolds home. She works as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at software firm Afiniti.
Bond added: "I think Beatrice is quite right to maintain a low public profile, enjoy her family life, her job and – hopefully – a very happy birthday."
