Expert suggests relations may be slowly improving despite Easter absence
King Charles is reportedly still very fond of his nieces, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, even as the York family continues to face scrutiny following the controversy surrounding Andrew.
The sisters are not expected to join the royal family for the traditional Easter Sunday service this year. According to royal commentators, concerns that the York name could overshadow the occasion played a role in the decision.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital that the monarch continues to hold warm feelings toward the sisters but likely understood that their presence might have drawn attention away from the event itself.
He noted that their absence from the Easter gathering was not entirely surprising, especially given the ongoing headlines surrounding the York family.
“It has been clear for some time that the York brand is toxic following the arrest of Andrew and the controversies involving Sarah Ferguson,” Fitzwilliams said, adding that it was likely a mutually agreed decision for them to stay away to avoid distracting from the celebration.
Despite the situation, the expert suggested relations between the King and his nieces may be gradually improving. He pointed out that there are indications the sisters, and possibly their spouses, could appear during the carriage procession at Royal Ascot.
Fitzwilliams also highlighted that Charles is known to appreciate the way Beatrice and Eugenie manage family life, professional careers and charitable work, even though they are not working members of the royal family.
While their participation in major events may remain limited, the expert said the signs could point to a subtle thaw in relations, though appearances at Buckingham Palace garden parties still seem unlikely for now.
