A biography published over two decades ago is drawing renewed attention for its explosive claims about a former member of the royal family. The book alleges that during her marriage, the Duchess of York engaged in a romantic relationship with an American businessman while she was expecting her second child.
The account, detailed in a 2001 publication, states the relationship began in 1989 after the two met at a high-profile opera event in the United States. The author contends this connection was a primary factor in the eventual breakdown of the Duchess’s marriage to the Duke of York, which ended in divorce in 1992 after six years.
According to the biography, the Duchess was reportedly in a vulnerable state at the time, feeling unsupported by her husband, who was frequently absent due to his naval duties. The American figure is described as having provided the attention and affection she felt was lacking. The author goes so far as to claim that while the Duke remained her closest friend, this other man represented the great romance of her life.
The marriage’s dissolution was followed by a major scandal months later, when photographs were published showing the Duchess on vacation with another man, identified as a financial advisor and a friend of the American businessman. The images caused a media sensation and remain one of the most talked-about episodes in recent royal history.
In a past interview, the Duchess reflected on the challenges of her marriage, stating she had entered it for love but often felt alone, seeing her husband only a fraction of the year due to his commitments.
These historical claims have resurfaced amid reports of a change in living arrangements for the former couple. Sources indicate the Duchess will be establishing a separate household after years of sharing a residence, a move described as part of her continued path toward an independent life. This follows news that the Duke is relocating to a different royal property.
