Sophia Michaels
Princess Anne has lived a life in the public eye, initially perceived as distant but now recognized for her charitable work and steadfastness in the British royal family. Despite the privileges of palace living and royal titles, she has endured moments of sorrow and loss during her nearly seven decades of life. Explore some tragic aspects of Princess Anne’s life below.
Princess Anne’s Separation at Boarding School
Princess Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, faced separation from her family at a young age when she attended a prestigious boarding school. Her upbringing mirrored the queen’s, characterized by limited time together. Despite this, Anne defended her mother’s care and affection, emphasizing that the upbringing was standard for the royal family.
Discontentment with Royal Life
Princess Anne, renowned for her work ethic within the royal family, expressed resentment towards her royal obligations in the past. Despite her dedication, she once voiced her lack of choice in being born a princess. She recollected feeling unhappy during her teenage years, particularly disliking the public walkabouts, a new royal engagement introduced in the 1970s.
Surviving an Armed Kidnapping Attempt
In 1974, Princess Anne faced a terrifying experience when an armed man attempted to kidnap her while traveling with her then-husband. Displaying remarkable bravery, she staunchly refused his demands, demonstrating her unwavering mindset in a moment of crisis.
By chance, boxer Ronnie Russell thwarted a kidnapping attempt on Princess Anne by punching the assailant, Ian Ball, when he approached the princess. Thanks to Russell’s quick actions, Anne was unharmed, and Ball was subdued. Russell’s heroic act earned him a medal from Queen Elizabeth and the Queen also paid off his mortgage as a token of gratitude.
Her contentious relationship with the press led to the nickname, ‘Her Royal Rudeness’
Early in her royal duties, Princess Anne had a reputation for being brusque and dismissive, particularly towards the press. This behavior earned her the unflattering nickname “Her Royal Rudeness.” The media criticized her for being rude, sulky, and difficult in her interactions, not just with British journalists but also with international reporters.
Her Olympic dreams were nearly shattered by a freak accident
Before competing in the 1976 Olympic Games, Princess Anne faced a setback when her horse fell on her during training. Despite suffering bruises, a concussion, and a fractured vertebra, Anne recovered in time to participate in the Olympics. While she didn’t win any medals, she demonstrated resilience by returning to the competition after her accident.
Princess Anne was unfavorably compared to Princess Diana
Princess Anne’s austere image juxtaposed with Princess Diana’s compassionate persona heightened the comparison between the two sisters-in-law. While the media lauded Diana for her warmth and connection with people, Anne was often depicted as stern and formal. Despite their differences, Diana acknowledged Anne’s independence and intellect, expressing mutual respect between them.
Her first marriage ended in a scandalous divorce
Princess Anne’s Controversial Marital History
Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips wed in 1973 at Westminster Abbey but their marriage ended in 1989 amidst scandal due to alleged infidelities on both sides. Reports surfaced in British and international media of their indiscretions with various individuals including a call girl and colleagues. Additionally, it was revealed after their divorce that Phillips had fathered a child during their marriage with another woman.
Princess Anne’s Legal Trouble Over Dog Attack
In 2002, Princess Anne faced legal consequences when her bull terrier, Dotty, attacked two boys on bicycles. She pleaded guilty to losing control of her dog, leading to a fine, compensation to the boys, and orders for training and supervision of her pet. This incident marked her as the only royal family member with a criminal record in modern times, contrasting with historical incidents like King Charles I’s conviction for treason in the 17th century.
Health Challenges Faced by Princess Anne
Despite her reputation for resilience, Princess Anne has encountered health issues, particularly related to horse-riding injuries. From cracking a bone in her finger at 14 to being kicked by a horse in 2008, she has endured physical setbacks. She also battled a chest infection in 2016, requiring hospitalization and cancellations of royal engagements, showing her perseverance in overcoming health obstacles.
Body Language Expert’s Observation on Princess Anne’s Video Message
In a video posted by the organization Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering in 2021, Princess Anne’s appearance raised concern for body language expert Judi James. Despite Anne’s positive message praising engineers during the pandemic, James noted a perceived frailty in the princess’s demeanor, which may have been misinterpreted without her resilient words and demeanor.
James assumed Anne might have been overworking herself, judging by her red eyes, hoarse voice, and sad expression, likely due to her busy workload and the added stress of the pandemic.
Princess Anne’s Enduring Loss
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The Princess lost both her parents, Prince Philip in April 2021 and Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, within a year and a half due to old age, which undoubtedly left her and her siblings grieving.
She supported her brother during the transition to becoming the new king, being tasked with responsibilities that proved her importance during the crucial period.
Princess Anne’s presence was essential, especially when assisting Prince Harry upon his arrival after both Charles III and Prince William had left the residence.
Princess Anne Hospitalized after Concussion
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In June 2024, Princess Anne was hospitalized due to a concussion caused by an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate involving one of her horses, resulting in memory loss but expected to be temporary.
Despite the concussion, Princess Anne underwent treatment and spent five nights in the hospital before being discharged, with all her engagements postponed, indicating a return to her duties may not be imminent.
