18 Scandals That Rocked Royal Families

Royal families around the world have faced scandals that revealed personal conflicts, political struggles, and public controversies.

Sophia Zapanta
November 3, 2025
6 min read

18 Scandals That Rocked Royal Families — Boasson and Eggler St. Petersburg Nevsky 24 on Wikimedia Commons

Throughout history, royal families have not only been symbols of power and tradition but also the subject of scandals. These incidents often shaped public opinion, weakened authority, or revealed private disputes. Looking at them gives insight into how monarchy and society have changed over time.

1. 1. King Edward VIII’s Abdication, UK

In 1936, King Edward VIII gave up the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The relationship caused a crisis because it clashed with the expectations of the Church of England. His decision marked the first abdication in British history. It changed the line of succession and placed his brother George VI on the throne.

2. 2. Marie Antoinette and the Diamond Necklace Affair, France

After Jean-Baptiste André Gautier-Dagoty on Wikimedia Commons

In the 1780s, Queen Marie Antoinette was falsely linked to a scheme involving an expensive diamond necklace. Though she had no role in it, the scandal damaged her reputation. Many in France believed she lived in excess while people struggled. This incident fueled anger that led to the French Revolution.

3. 3. Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s Marriage, UK

Tucker, Robert John on Wikimedia Commons

The marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana broke down publicly in the 1990s. Reports of affairs on both sides drew global attention. The 1996 divorce marked a turning point in the monarchy’s relationship with the media. Diana’s tragic death in 1997 intensified public scrutiny of the royal family.

4. 4. King Juan Carlos I Scandal, Spain

In 2012, King Juan Carlos of Spain faced criticism for taking a costly hunting trip during a financial crisis. He later admitted the trip was a mistake. Further reports of financial misconduct weakened his position. In 2014, he abdicated in favor of his son Felipe VI.

5. 5. Princess Mako’s Marriage Controversy, Japan

Princess Mako of Japan faced public debate over her engagement to Kei Komuro. Many criticized Komuro’s family’s financial disputes. The pressure caused delays in their wedding plans. In 2021, the couple married quietly, and Mako gave up her royal title.

6. 6. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Departure, UK

In 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from royal duties. They cited media harassment and lack of support from the institution. Their interview in 2021 revealed claims of racism and mistreatment within the royal household. The event became one of the most publicized royal controversies of recent decades.

7. 7. King Farouk’s Downfall, Egypt

King Farouk of Egypt was known for a lavish lifestyle. Stories of gambling, corruption, and personal excess spread widely. His rule lost public support after military defeats and poor governance. In 1952, he was forced to abdicate and leave Egypt.

8. 8. Princess Margaret’s Romance, UK

Princess Margaret, the sister of Queen Elizabeth II, wanted to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend. He was a divorced man, which caused a crisis in the 1950s. The government and the church opposed the marriage. Margaret eventually ended the relationship, drawing sympathy and criticism.

9. 9. King Louis XIV and the Affair of the Poisons, France

During the late 17th century, a scandal erupted in France involving poisonings and black magic. Several members of Louis XIV’s court were accused. Rumors spread that even his mistress, Madame de Montespan, was involved. The affair damaged the image of the royal court.

10. 10. Crown Prince Frederik’s Nightlife, Denmark

In the 1990s, Crown Prince Frederik was often criticized for his nightlife and partying. Danish media reported stories that clashed with expectations of royal conduct. His behavior became a subject of debate in the country. Over time, he gained a more stable image through his marriage and official duties.

11. 11. King Albert II Paternity Case, Belgium

Υπουργείο Εξωτερικών on Wikimedia Commons

King Albert II of Belgium faced legal battles after artist Delphine Boël claimed he was her father. For years, Albert refused DNA testing. In 2020, results confirmed he was her biological father. The revelation shocked Belgium and damaged his reputation.

12. 12. Prince Andrew’s Allegations, UK

Prince Andrew faced accusations of ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In 2019, his television interview worsened public criticism. He later stepped back from royal duties. In 2022, he settled a civil lawsuit in the United States without admitting liability.

13. 13. Princess Cristina Corruption Case, Spain

Princess Cristina of Spain and her husband Iñaki Urdangarin were investigated for financial misconduct. The case became a major scandal in Spain. In 2017, her husband was sentenced to prison. Although Cristina was acquitted, her reputation suffered greatly.

14. 14. Emperor Nero’s Reputation, Rome

John William Waterhouse on WIkimedia Commons

Though not modern, Nero’s scandals in ancient Rome remain among the most infamous. He was accused of cruelty, misuse of power, and neglect during the Great Fire of Rome. Stories claimed he played music while the city burned. His rule ended with revolt and his forced suicide.

15. 15. Princess Caroline’s Privacy Battles, Monaco

Princess Caroline of Monaco fought long legal battles with the press over invasion of privacy. Photographers frequently targeted her private life. The European Court of Human Rights eventually ruled in her favor. Her case highlighted the tension between royalty and media attention.

16. 16. King Gustav IV Adolf’s Overthrow, Sweden

King Gustav IV Adolf lost support after Sweden’s defeat to Russia in 1809. Critics accused him of poor leadership and personal weakness. A coup forced him to abdicate the throne. His removal ended direct rule by his branch of the family.

17. 17. Princess Diana’s Panorama Interview, UK

In 1995, Princess Diana gave a television interview to the BBC. She openly spoke about her marriage, personal struggles, and life inside the royal family. The interview shocked the public and created lasting controversy. In later years, the methods used to secure the interview were also questioned.

18. 18. King Henry VIII’s Marriages, UK

Hans Holbein the Younger on Wikimedia Commons

King Henry VIII of England’s six marriages created political and religious crises. His wish to annul his first marriage led to the break with the Catholic Church. Two of his wives, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were executed. His personal life changed the structure of religion and monarchy in England.