Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have withdrawn from a public appearance following their father Prince Andrew's announcement that he will stop using his royal titles. The sisters were scheduled to attend the Pink Ball at the British Museum on Saturday but failed to show, according to reports.
The event, which aimed to mirror the Met Gala, featured guests including Naomi Campbell, Janet Jackson, and Lady Kitty Spencer. While there was no official confirmation of the princesses' attendance, Hello! Magazine reported that they were on the guest list but pulled out at the last minute.
Prince Andrew, 65, announced on Friday that he would no longer use his Duke of York title or any royal honours, stating that "the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the royal family." He has faced allegations of sexual misconduct linked to his association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, which he has consistently denied.
Despite their father's decision, Beatrice and Eugenie retain their Princess of York titles as they are princesses by birth. Their mother, Sarah, Duchess of York, will lose her courtesy title following Andrew's announcement. Prince Andrew will keep his Prince title but will not use it officially.
In a statement from Buckingham Palace, Andrew said he had discussed the matter with King Charles and his family, adding: "I vigorously deny the accusations against me." The government has indicated it will be guided by the palace on the issue, though Energy Secretary Ed Miliband expressed sympathy for Virginia Giuffre, who has made allegations against Andrew.
