Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are largely estranged from the royal family – but there are two members said to still be in touch with the couple, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
The sisters are believed to have remained close to their cousin and his wife following their exit from royal life and relocation to the States. And it’s prompted royal fans to question whether the Sussexes will secretly head back to the UK in order to meet Beatrice’s newborn daughter.
Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi welcomed their second daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, on Wednesday, 22nd January, at 12.57pm, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London. They shared the happy news one week later, on 29 January, sharing that the premature baby was born weighing four pounds and five ounces.
According to royal expert Jennie Bond, the proud new parents will have wanted to share their joy with all members of the family – including Harry and Meghan. Jennie told the Mirror: “I imagine that Beatrice has already pinged a picture or two [or Athena] to Harry and Meghan.”
As to whether the Sussexes will travel to meet the new arrival, she continued: “I don’t think it will hasten a visit by them to the UK, but perhaps if charity work or business brings Harry this way he’ll be keen to meet his new cousin.”
Jennie also reflected on the impact Athena’s arrival will have on the royals. “This was lovely news,” she said. “After the brutality of last year for so many of the Royal Family, 2025 is looking altogether brighter. It must have been rather alarming to have such a premature and tiny baby. I think the hospital has to be commended for keeping the birth completely confidential for a week. But all, it seems, is well and the family are obviously delighted.
“I think family has become ever more important for the beleaguered Prince Andrew , and perhaps one of his main roles in life these days is to be a doting grandad. And I’m sure that Fergie will be just as besotted as little Athena’s parents clearly are. I think it’s a rather lovely name and it’s about time that the Royal family moved away from strictly traditional names. These days everyone seems to be coming up with unusual names – though I’m sure in a month or two there will be Athenas popping up everywhere.”
Beatrice and Edoardo are also parents to three-year-old Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi, while Edoardo is a proud dad to eight-year-old son Wolfie from a previous relationship.
Buckingham Palace announced the happy news of Athena’s arrival in a statement that read: “Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, born on Wednesday, 22nd January, at 12.57pm, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London. The baby was born weighing four pounds and five ounces. Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the royal family have all been informed and are delighted with the news.”
