Royal Family RECAP: King Charles is steadfast at palace ceremony after Andrew's arrest, Duchess Sophie heads to Kenya, more


All the latest royal news from Tuesday 24 February, as developments unfold across the royal family both in the UK and overseas...


A photo of King Charles in London© Max Mumby
HELLO!
Nicky MorrisActing TV and Film Editor
Katie DalyLifestyle Writer
Beatriz ColonNew York Writer - New York
Eleanor DyeOnline Royal Correspondent
Updated: February 24, 2026
Share this:

TODAY'S ROYAL NEWS

  • King Charles lead royals including Queen Camilla, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at ceremony at St James's Palace
  • Duchess Sophie continued African visit, departing Somalia and heading to Kenya 
Junior Lifestyle Writer

Prince William's heartbreaking remark following brief split from Princess Kate

The Prince and Princess of Wales have become known as one of the world's, and history's, most beloved royal couples, with a love story truly for the ages.

However, even they had their issues, as they briefly separated in 2007, when she gave William and "ultimatum" to either commit to their future together, or she would walk away forever.

Though it was he who made the final decision to call off the relationship then, a new comment he made about his emotional reaction to the split  Read the full story here.

Prince William and Kate watch the Olympic Torch relay in 2012© UK Press via Getty Images
Share this:
Junior Lifestyle Writer

Princess Kate is the ultimate Gucci girl

Since Sunday, all we've been able to think about is the brilliant pink off-the-shoulder Gucci gown that the Princess of Wales wore to mark her return to the BAFTAs, after a three-year absence.

The 44-year-old first wore the dress in 2019, but it isn't the only gorgeous Gucci piece she's got in her wardrobe! Take a look at our deep dive into the fashionista biggest and best Gucci moments over the years here.

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales attends the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall on November 19, 2025 in London, England. © Samir Hussein/WireImage

 

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

New outing for Prince William and Princess Kate

On Thursday, the Prince and Princess of Wales will travel to Powys - a county thought to have more volunteers per head than anywhere else in the UK - where they will meet community groups and hear about the work being done to support rural areas.

The visit comes just days before Wales celebrates St David's Day, with the couple expected to shine a spotlight on the importance of volunteering and local community spirit.

Prince William and Kate Middleton visit Meadow Street Community Garden© Getty Images
Prince William and Kate will visit Wales this week

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Show of royal unity

King Charles and Queen Camilla have led a rare and significant joint outing at St. James's Palace, joined by Princess Anne, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. The six working royals came together for a special presentation ceremony to award the Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Education. 

The significant showing of unity hasn't gone unnoticed, coming as it does during a particularly challenging week for the family. The outing follows the news of the arrest of the King's younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, last Thursday. The former Prince was detained on his 66th birthday on suspicion of misconduct in public office - allegations he has consistently denied.

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Prince Edward no-show

Prince Edward had also been expected to attend the ceremony but was forced to pull out at the last minute after coming down with a cold, HELLO! understands.

Fans were impressed by Prince Edward's gesture© Getty
Prince Edward had to pull out of the engagement
 
Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Queen Letizia commands attention

All eyes were on Queen Letizia this afternoon as she stepped out for the second stage of the Princess of Girona Foundation's 2026 talent tour. The Spanish monarch arrived at the Palacio de Congresos for the announcement of the Creaempresa 2026 award, looking every inch the professional royal.

Letizia opted for a sophisticated, tonal look in a stunning shade of teal, featuring a chic knitted blouse paired with perfectly coordinating trousers. Are you loving this teal ensemble as much as we are?

Queen Letizia at the Palacio de Congresos© Getty Images
Queen Letizia at the Palacio de Congresos

 

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Behind the scenes

Talk about couple goals! Kensington Palace has dropped a gorgeous photo from the BAFTAs, and it's basically the definition of the ultimate date night.

The candid snap shows Prince William and Princess Kate having a total fit of the giggles while travelling in a lift at the Royal Festival Hall.

What do you think they were laughing about? Let us know your best guesses! To see the pictures, click on our story.

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Meghan Markle nails the 'slip dress' trend

If you were looking for a masterclass in how to style a slip dress in your 40s, look no further than the Duchess of Sussex. Meghan, 44, took to Instagram this morning to share a gorgeous new snap for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. Looking every inch the California cool-girl, she was seen wearing the most stunning merlot-hued slip dress.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Meghan look without some serious sparkle! She paired the dress with her iconic £15k Cartier Juste un Clou necklace, proving that a simple slip dress is the perfect canvas for high-end jewels.

To see the pictures, click on our story.

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

The Duchess of Edinburgh's mission to Somalia

The Duchess of Edinburgh has returned from a two-day visit to Somalia, where she travelled to the capital, Mogadishu, on a trip that was kept under wraps for security reasons until it had concluded.

The Duchess carried out the visit ahead of International Women's Day, focusing on her long-standing work supporting the Women, Peace and Security agenda, a cause she has championed for many years.

View post on X

Share this:
Deputy Online Editor

Prince William and Princess Kate face tricky questions

It was a night of glitz, glamour, and coordinated velvet, but it wasn't all easy breezy for the Prince and Princess of Wales at the BAFTAs on Sunday. While royal fans were delighted to see William and Kate back together at the awards for the first time in three years - especially with Kate looking so radiant in her recycled Gucci gown - the couple reportedly faced a few "spicy" moments.

The Prince and Princess of Wales attend the EE BAFTA Film Awards© Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
The Prince and Princess of Wales attend the EE BAFTA Film Awards

According to PEOPLE, the couple were put on the spot regarding the bombshell arrest of William's uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, just last Thursday. One person reportedly asked the couple point-blank: "Is the monarchy in peril?"

Find out what happened here.

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Good afternoon!

Good afternoon all! I'm taking over the blog this afternoon and will be bringing you all the latest updates for the royals. 

We've got more coming on King Charles's outing - with five working members of the Firm making a rare joint engagement. 

And there'll be plenty of royal lifestyle and beauty coverage coming your way too. 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

King and Queen lead ultimate royal outing

The first pictures of the St James's Palace reception have dropped, featuring the King and Queen, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. 

It's the largest royal family outing since the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor last week. The King presented the Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Education and handed out medals to the winners. 

See all the best photos here

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Princess Anne steps up

Princess Anne spoke to students from Loughborough University, including Paralympian Thomas Young, at the reception. 

The Princess Royal was attending the ceremony in her role as Chancellor of Edinburgh University and initially wore her robes before changing out of them for a meet and greet. The institution's Centre for Fire Safety Engineering is receiving an award for research and education.

Princess Anne joins King Charles at royal reception
The Princess Royal spoke to students from Loughborough University at St James's Palace

 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Prince Harry records video to mark anniversary of Ukraine war

Prince Harry has recorded a new video message to mark the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. 

"I want to speak directly to you, to those on the frontlines and to those supporting from the home front, your strength inspires the world," he said in the clip, which was recorded for the Superhuman Centre. 

He said he had been left "moved" by the "courage, dignity and unbreakable spirit" of the country's people, even in the midst of war. 

Harry has visited Ukraine twice in the past year and has worked closely with the centre. 

View post on Instagram
 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

King Frederik busy in action

While King Charles and Queen Camilla host a formal reception in the UK, over in Denmark, King Frederik has been undertaking important business too. 

The Danish monarch received 94 new first lieutenants from the Army Officers' School in the Amalienborg Palace. It is a fixed tradition where the King personally recognises the efforts of those in the armed forces. 

View post on Instagram
 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

More on Prince Harry

Prince Harry has shared a new video to mark the fourth anniversary of the war in Ukraine. 

In the emotional video, he speaks directly to the Ukrainian people, reflecting on his own two visits there in the past year. 

For more details and to watch the video, see our full story

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

What will happen to Royal Lodge now?

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has left his former home in Windsor, Royal Lodge, and the home now lies empty. 

He is now temporarily staying at Wood Farm in Sandringham, but is set to relocate to Marsh Farm after renovations are carried out. 

Prior to Andrew's arrest last week over suspicion of misconduct in public office, our Homes Editor, Rachel Avery, sat down with royal biographer Andrew Lownie to discuss the future of the ex-Duke of York's former property. 

Read the full exclusive story and all the details. 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

King Felipe's down-to-earth moment

King Felipe of Spain stepped out in uniform for the Palos de la Frontera in commemoration of 100 years since the flights of the "Plus Ultra". It took off on 22 January 1926. 

This marked the first flight between Europe and South America via a Latin American country, and showcased the brilliance of Spanish aviation.

Felipe, making a solo outing, greeted crowds and sweetly shook hands with one young royal fan, who was lifted up by his parents in order to greet the king. 

 

View post on Instagram
 

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Queen Elizabeth's private beach hut

When you think of Queen Elizabeth II's properties, Buckingham Palace, Sandringham or Balmoral may typically come to mind. 

However, the late monarch also owned a tiny beach hut on the coast of Norfolk, near where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor now resides. 

Sadly, it no longer stands today, but it was loved by the Queen and had a very interesting history. Our lifestyle writer, Katie Daly, brings it to life once more

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Goodbye

I'm logging off now after another busy day in the life of the royal family. 

Our Homes Editor, Rachel Avery, will be taking things from here, so stay tuned for further updates! 

Share this:
Homes Editor

Hello everyone

I'm on the evening shift tonight, bringing you the latest royal news as it happens. 

Share this:
Homes Editor

Duchess Sophie heads to Kenya

As the monarchy faces unprecedented turmoil, it's business as usual for the senior royals who are continuing with their important work. The Duchess of Edinburgh has just completed a two-day visit to Somalia, Buckingham Palace has announced today. The trip was to raise awareness of conflict-related sexual violence. The royal is now in Kenya until Thursday to continue her mission to recognise the role of women in peacekeeping, as she celebrates female Kenyan leaders.

Share this:
Online Royal Correspondent

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's exes - where are they now

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor only married once - to Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York. 

However, the former Prince, who was arrested last week on his 66th birthday, has been romantically linked to multiple women over the years and his personal life has come under increased scrutiny in recent months. 

Andrew and Sarah, parents to Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, have been divorced since 1996 but still lived together at Royal Lodge until recently. 

HELLO! writer Lauren Clark details Andrew's most notable relationships, including where they are now. 

Share this:
Homes Editor

What happened when Queen Elizabeth II was sworn at

John Davidson, who lives with Tourette syndrome, caused an unintentional stir at the Baftas on Sunday when he shouted a racial slur at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo during the ceremony. Discover the late Queen Elizabeth II's response when he once swore at her

Share this:
Homes Editor

Duchess Sophie's second day in Somalia in pictures

Duchess Sophie has already arrived in Kenya, but here are the best photos from her second day spent in Somalia, where she visited the British Embassy in Mogadishu and a sexual and reproductive health clinic at a city centre hospital in Mogadishu.

The Duchess of Edinburgh during a meeting with civil society members discussing the issues around sexual and gender-based violence in Somalia at the British Embassy in Mogadishu, on day two of her visit to Somalia© PA Images via Getty Images
The Duchess of Edinburgh during a meeting with civil society members discussing the issues around sexual and gender-based violence in Somalia at the British Embassy in Mogadishu, on day two of her visit to Somalia
The Duchess of Edinburgh with civil society members ahead of a round-table discussion on the issues around sexual and gender-based violence in Somalia at the British Embassy in Mogadishu© PA Images via Getty Images
The Duchess of Edinburgh with civil society members ahead of a round-table discussion on the issues around sexual and gender-based violence in Somalia at the British Embassy in Mogadishu
The Duchess of Edinburgh with Dr Miriam Hassan (right), an International Rescue Committee (IRC) coordinator, who treats women that are victims of sexual and gender-based violence at a sexual and reproductive health clinic at a city centre hospital in Mogadishu© PA Images via Getty Images
The Duchess of Edinburgh with Dr Miriam Hassan (right), an International Rescue Committee (IRC) coordinator, who treats women that are victims of sexual and gender-based violence at a sexual and reproductive health clinic at a city centre hospital in Mogadishu
The Duchess of Edinburgh with Dr Miriam Hassan (left), an International Rescue Committee (IRC) coordinator, who treats women that are victims of sexual and gender-based violence at a sexual and reproductive health clinic at a city centre hospital in Mogadishu© PA Images via Getty Images
The Duchess of Edinburgh with Dr Miriam Hassan (left), an International Rescue Committee (IRC) coordinator, who treats women that are victims of sexual and gender-based violence at a sexual and reproductive health clinic at a city centre hospital in Mogadishu
Share this:
Homes Editor

Queen Mathilde of Belgium's respectful appearance

Queen Mathilde of Belgium has attended the annual mass in memory of the deceased members of the royal family at Eglise Notre-Dame de Laeken. The royal kept her attire respectful and chic with an all black choice, adding a pop of pink lipstick and a dazzling brooch to the outfit to complete the look. 

Queen Mathilde of Belgium
Queen Mathilde of Belgium

Share this:
Homes Editor

Danish royals mark poignant invasion anniversary

Denmark's King Frederik X and Queen Mary have attende a church service today, marking the 4th anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine at Holmen's Church in Copenhagen, Denmark. Mary looked composed in a black and pink ensemble alongside her husband. 

Denmark's King Frederik X and Queen Mary attend a church service marking the 4th anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine at Holmen's Church in Copenhagen, Denmark on February 24, 2026© Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima
Denmark's King Frederik X and Queen Mary attend a church service marking the 4th anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine at Holmen's Church in Copenhagen, Denmark on February 24, 2026
Share this:
Homes Editor

Sarah Ferguson's childhood home

As Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor relinquished the keys to his Windsor home, Royal Lodge, his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson was forced out, too. While we await news of where she will live next, we take a look back at her childhood home that she fought hard to protect. 


Share this:
Homes Editor

Prince Edward absent from royal event

Discover why Prince Edward pulled out of a royal event right at the last minute in the wake of the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal. And it has nothing to do with all the drama! 

Share this:
Homes Editor

Goodnight

Thank you for joining us for an exciting day of royal coverage. Over and out! 

Share this:
More Royalty
See more