Royal praised for independence while critics question bystander behaviour
Princess Beatrice has found herself at the centre of online debate after a resurfaced video showed her handling luggage on her own before getting into a cab.
In the clip, the daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson is seen lifting her own bags and placing them in the vehicle’s trunk. A man, believed to be the driver, remained seated during the moment and only stepped out after she had already managed the luggage herself.
The footage quickly drew mixed reactions online. Many praised Beatrice for her self-sufficiency, describing her as grounded and capable of managing without assistance. Others, however, criticised the driver’s lack of initiative, arguing that basic courtesy should have prompted him to help.
Some viewers also questioned the situation entirely, pointing to the presence of security and suggesting the moment may have been staged to attract sympathy or attention.
The conversation extended beyond the royal moment, with social media users debating broader expectations around manners and whether help should be offered or declined in such situations.
Beatrice, who is married to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, shares two daughters with her husband and is also a stepmother to his son from a previous relationship.
