Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi have shown a united front ever since their 2020 wedding, when they married in a stunning ceremony at Windsor's Royal Chapel of All Saints. Following the scandals that have befallen the Yorks, the couple appears to be facing their first serious public test.
© In Pictures via Getty Images, Mark Kerrison/In Pictures via Getty ImagesAccording to sources close to the pair, Beatrice and Edoardo are going through a period of “distance." This separation is allegedly due to Edoardo's demanding business schedule and the personal challenges Beatrice has faced as the eldest daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. The couple has spent significant time apart throughout 2026, fueling public speculation about whether the distance is a genuine crisis or a carefully managed strategy to shield Edoardo’s business interests.
A family crisis taking its toll
It’s no secret that the situation surrounding Prince Andrew, who was arrested earlier this year, has dealt an emotional blow to his ex-wife, daughters, and extended family. While her sister, Princess Eugenie, is said to have taken a firmer stance, Beatrice is attempting to strike a balance between loyalty to her parents and her role within the royal family. The strain has reportedly affected her marriage. “Things haven’t been great for some time. Edo needs attention… he’s that kind of man,” said a source to The Daily Mail.
There are also concerns about the York scandal's impact on Edoardo’s professional reputation. His property firm, Banda, is gaining momentum, but demands much of his time and energy. “He’s very focused on himself right now,” added the source.
© ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty ImagesA united front or damage control?
Despite the growing rumors, Beatrice is said to remain committed to preserving her family. That intention was on display last Friday when, according to reports, the couple stepped out together at a birthday celebration at Eel Sushi in Notting Hill.
While Beatrice has remained largely out of the spotlight in the UK, focusing on her daughters, three-year-old Sienna and baby Athena, Edoardo has been traveling. He was recently spotted in Florida, visiting high-profile locations in Palm Beach and Miami. On social media, he shared glimpses of turquoise skies and luxury developments, writing about “inspiring people” and “extraordinary places," a tone that contrasted sharply with his wife’s silence.
He also visited the exclusive Fisher Island Club, a private enclave known for its discretion, where he met with industry peers.
© Aaron Chown - PA ImagesDifferent ways of coping
Insiders point to a growing divide in how the couple is handling the situation. Beatrice has retreated into family life, while Edoardo is immersed in work and travel.“There’s been distance between them with his recent work trips, which he’s been sharing much more publicly than before,” noted a source.
Friends of the princess are said to be concerned about what they perceive as a lack of support during a difficult time. “Beatrice wants to see the good in people—sometimes to a fault. It’s part of why she didn’t fully confront her father’s behavior, and the same may apply to her trust in Edoardo,” said a source.
Still, Beatrice is reportedly determined to keep the family together. Alongside raising her daughters, she remains a devoted stepmother to Wolfie, Edoardo’s son with Dara Huang. Dara recently shared a sweet image of Wolfie writing a Mother’s Day card to his “stepmother Bea.”
An uncertain road ahead
With their father sidelined from public life and senior royals focused on protecting the institution, the York sisters find themselves in a delicate position.
Royal expert Emily Nash notes that the Prince and Princess of Wales are aware of public opinion and the potential reputational risks associated with the scandal, making their distance from the situation understandable. As Edoardo continues to expand his business between London and Florida, Beatrice appears to be waiting for the storm to blow over.
© Getty Images
