The royal family is celebrating the arrival of Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi’s second child, baby Athena Elizabeth Rose.
Born on January 22 at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London, little Athena weighed just 4lb 5oz but is said to be doing well.
Despite their transatlantic distance, Prince Harry, 40, and Meghan Markle, 43, are believed to have shared in the exciting news, with royal experts suggesting that Beatrice, 36, likely sent them an early photo of her newborn daughter.
Princess Beatrice likely shared ‘a picture or two’ of baby Athena with Harry and Meghan
According to royal expert and former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, Prince Harry and Meghan may have been among the first to hear about Athena’s birth.
Speaking to the Mirror, Jennie speculated: “I imagine that Beatrice has already pinged a picture or two [of Athena] to Harry and Meghan.
“I don’t think it will hasten a visit by them to the UK, but perhaps if charity work or business brings Harry this way, he’ll be keen to meet his new cousin.”
The Sussexes have maintained a good relationship with Beatrice and Edoardo despite their departure from royal duties and move to California in early 2020.
While they have yet to make a public statement, it is thought they have privately expressed their congratulations.
Sarah Ferguson ‘besotted’ over new baby granddaughter
Athena’s arrival marks a positive start to 2025 for the royal family, especially after a tumultuous year in 2024 after King Charles and Princess Kate’s cancer battles.
Jennie reflected on the significance of the birth.
I imagine that Beatrice has already pinged a picture or two to Harry and Meghan.
“This was lovely news,” she gushed. “After the brutality of last year for so many of the royal family, 2025 is looking altogether brighter. It must have been rather alarming to have such a premature and tiny baby.
She also commented on how Beatrice’s mother Sarah Ferguson is likely “besotted” with baby Athena.
Jennie also praised Beatrice and Edoardo’s choice of name, calling it a refreshing departure from strict royal traditions.
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo announce birth of ‘tiny’ daughter
Beatrice’s husband Edoardo took to social media to share his excitement.
He posted a heartfelt tribute alongside a picture of baby Athena wrapped in a cosy blanket.
“Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi. We welcomed baby Athena into our lives last week. She is tiny and absolutely perfect,” the new father gushed. “We are all (including Wolfie and Sienna) already completely besotted with her. Our hearts are overflowing with love for you, baby Athena.”
Edoardo, 41, also took a moment to express his deep gratitude to the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.
