Princess Beatrice faces an awkward situation at her daughter Athena's christening, as both her estranged father, Prince Andrew, and mother, Sarah Ferguson, are expected to attend. This marks the first significant family gathering for Andrew and Sarah since King Charles stripped Andrew of his royal titles and honors. The christening of Athena, Beatrice's second daughter with Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, will take place at the Chapel Royal at St James's Palace and could see Andrew come face-to-face with senior royals like King Charles, Prince William, and Princess Kate.
Despite a reportedly strained relationship with her father, Beatrice has invited him, partly out of concern for his mental well-being and his close bond with his grandchildren. Sources indicate that Beatrice is trying to ensure the focus remains on her daughter, but acknowledges the significance of this event as Andrew and Sarah's first public appearance at a royal function since their titles were revoked. The christening was reportedly delayed due to the scandal surrounding Andrew and Sarah, unlike the earlier baptism of Beatrice's elder daughter, Sienna. Athena was born prematurely in January 2025.