Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie Want to ‘Hold On to Their Royal Status’ amid Andrew’s Arrest, Family Friend Says

**Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie Face Uncertain Future Amid Family Turmoil**

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are navigating a tumultuous period following the recent arrest of their father, the former Prince Andrew. The sisters, who have held royal titles since birth, now find themselves under increased scrutiny regarding their status within the monarchy and their future prospects. According to a family friend, the royal identity is profoundly important to them, and they are understandably keen to maintain their standing despite ongoing challenges.

The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicions of misconduct in public office has reopened discussions about the royal family’s dynamics. Authorities are investigating whether he shared confidential information with the late Jeffrey Epstein, who was a controversial figure due to his criminal history. Meanwhile, fresh documents related to Epstein have drawn attention to the actions of Sarah Ferguson, the sisters’ mother, amid her financial struggles. This renewed focus has raised questions about the implications for Beatrice and Eugenie.

While reports suggest that the princesses’ royal titles remain intact and their positions unchanged following their father’s title removal in late 2025, their place within the royal fold appears uncertain. The family friend, who spoke to PEOPLE, expressed the strong desire of both sisters to preserve their royal status, noting, “It’s their identity.”

Princess Beatrice, now 37, and Princess Eugenie, aged 35, enjoyed a privileged childhood, which included luxurious holidays, travels on private jets, and extravagant birthday celebrations. Growing up in the royal spotlight, they resided in lavish palace apartments and holidayed in luxurious Alpine chalets, leading to a belief that their royal status was unassailable.

Their father, Prince Andrew, played a significant role in fostering this belief, advocating for his daughters to receive the titles of “Her Royal Highness” from birth. When Eugenie married Jack Brooksbank in October 2018, Andrew reportedly insisted on a grand royal wedding at Windsor Castle, reflecting his desire for his daughter’s ceremony not to be viewed as inferior, particularly when compared to high-profile royal weddings from the previous year.

Early criticisms aimed at both sisters have often stemmed from the perception that they lead lavish lifestyles with minimal professional contributions to the royal family. While it is true that both Beatrice and Eugenie attended university and have pursued careers, their royal connections undeniably shaped the opportunities presented to them. Currently, they maintain residences in Kensington Palace and St. James’s Palace, despite not holding formal roles within the royal working capacity.

Both princesses have built careers in sectors that heavily rely on personal networks. Beatrice has carved out a path in international tech partnerships, while Eugenie has made strides in the high-end art sector. However, scrutiny on their financial dealings has intensified, especially concerning Eugenie’s charitable organisation, the Anti-Slavery Collective. The Charity Commission has indicated it will assess concerns related to the organisation’s financial management and spending practices.

Royal author Andrew Lownie expressed that the sisters’ economic futures are intricately tied to their royal identity, suggesting that their careers are fundamentally rooted in being princesses. The emergence of recent Epstein-related material has further complicated matters, raising questions about what Beatrice and Eugenie may have known regarding their parents’ connections to Epstein.

Notably, the accompanying documents reference a lunch involving the sisters, their mother, and Epstein just days after his release from prison in 2009. Additional emails have surfaced, alleging that Epstein sought tours of royal residences via the sisters, increasing speculation around their family dynamics and connections.

In light of the revelations, both Beatrice and Eugenie spent Christmas Day in 2025 with their uncle, King Charles, rather than with their parents, potentially indicating a shift in their allegiances as they contemplate their future roles.

Amid these challenges, Andrew Lownie has remarked on the delicate position the sisters find themselves in. He noted that they are struck between loyalty to their parents and navigational uncertainties about their own futures. As they grapple with a turbulent family environment, the path forward for Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie remains fraught with complexities and unanswered questions, leaving many to wonder how their royal identity will evolve in the coming years.