Princess Beatrice recently welcomed her second baby, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, signaling a new chapter in her family’s life. While Beatrice’s royal lineage connects her to Queen Elizabeth II, her child’s upbringing will diverge significantly from traditional royal norms. Royal historian Hugo Vickers emphasized that Athena’s upbringing will be markedly non-royal, attributing this difference to Beatrice’s non-working royal status. Unlike her more visible relatives, such as Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton’s children, who engage in royal duties and maintain a public presence, Athena and her siblings will enjoy a more private upbringing.
Beatrice’s sister, Princess Eugenie, demonstrates a contrasting approach by sharing glimpses of her family life on social media. In contrast, Beatrice has chosen a more reserved path, limiting public exposure for her children. This deliberate decision enables her to grant her children autonomy over their future choices and lifestyles. Beatrice and Eugenie’s children will be recognized as the grandchildren of Prince Andrew, despite his retreat from public duties following controversy surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Royal commentator Jack Royston emphasized the importance of empowering Beatrice’s children to shape their public vs. private identities. This liberty contrasts with the potential limelight Prince George and his siblings could face, given their royal lineage. Royston highlighted the significance of passing down coping strategies for managing public attention, drawing from Prince William’s own childhood experiences. Ultimately, the freedom to choose between a private or public life remains a precious gift Princess Beatrice can bestow upon her offspring, ensuring they have agency in shaping their destinies.