The reported estrangement between Princess Eugenie and her father, Prince Andrew, is rooted in a calculated move of 'self-preservation' for her own career and public standing, a royal expert has claimed. The discussion was sparked on Monday's episode of Good Morning Britain following reports the princess has severed contact.
The Stance of Self-Preservation
Unlike her sister, Princess Beatrice, who is attempting to navigate a delicate balance, Eugenie is said to have completely cut off communication with her father. This decision followed Prince Andrew being stripped of his royal titles and military affiliations by his brother, King Charles, last year, in the wake of his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Royal commentator Afua Hagan, speaking on the ITV programme, stated the move was 'definitely about self-preservation on her part'. She elaborated that this extends to protecting her young family, her husband Jack Brooksbank, her professional interests, and the charities she supports. 'I think she doesn't want guilt by association,' Hagan explained.
A Father's Lack of Remorse
Hagan further suggested that Prince Andrew's refusal to apologise to the victims of the Epstein scandal played a significant role in his daughter's decision. 'He does not seem to have any remorse and that does not sit well with her,' she said. This apparent misalignment of values was highlighted during the recent Christmas period, where Eugenie and Beatrice were seen with the wider royal family, but Andrew was notably absent.
'We cannot expect to see her with him in public. It does not mean she cannot support him privately,' Hagan noted, but concluded the public separation was a 'good indication' of their fractured relationship.
The Shadow of the Epstein Files
The strain intensified after the release of court documents related to Jeffrey Epstein before Christmas. These files included uncomfortable images of Prince Andrew, such as a photograph showing him lying across the laps of women. While being named or pictured in the documents does not denote criminal wrongdoing, and Andrew has consistently denied all allegations against him, the disclosure has cast a long shadow.
Another royal expert, Richard Fitzwilliams, told The Mirror that there is a 'fear of the unknown' for both Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, regarding what further information the vast, partially redacted files might contain. 'I’m sure both Andrew and Sarah are fearing that there is more to come,' he stated.
The initial report of the estrangement came from the Mail on Sunday, citing a source who claimed there was 'no contact' between Eugenie and her father, and that she had 'completely cut him off'. Princess Eugenie's representatives were approached for comment on the matter.
