Prins Bernhard Jr & Annette's Children: Names & Ages

After 25 years of marriage, Prince Bernhard Jr. and Princess Annette have decided to separate. The news was confirmed on Friday by the Rijksvoorlichtingsdienst with a brief statement.

A Royal Couple’s Decision

“After 25 years of marriage, we have decided to divorce. We are doing so in mutual agreement and with respect for each other. We will continue to share the care of our three children,” they stated.

Who Are Their Children?

While the daughters of King Willem-Alexander are increasingly visible at official events, Bernhard and Annette have, for years, chosen a different path for their children, raising them largely outside the public eye.

Meet Isabella, Samuel, and Benjamin

Their three children – Isabella (23), Samuel (21), and Benjamin (17) – lead relatively normal lives. They focus on school, friends, and vacations, with occasional photos attracting public attention.

Did You Know? Prince Bernhard is the son of Princess Margriet and Pieter van Vollenhoven, and, by royal decree, their children carry the Van Vollenhoven family name.

A Subtle Social Media Presence

The family isn’t entirely private. Both Bernhard and his children occasionally share glimpses of their lives on social media – vacation photos, family moments, and everyday experiences.

A Family Positioned in the Real World

Prince Bernhard’s children do not hold royal titles, but they do share a well-known family name. This approach appears to reflect Bernhard and Annette’s desire to maintain a connection to the royal family while grounding their children in everyday life.

Expert Insight: This decision to raise their children outside the constant scrutiny of royal life suggests a deliberate effort to provide them with a degree of normalcy and autonomy, potentially allowing them to pursue individual paths independent of their familial connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the nature of the announcement?

The announcement was a brief statement released by the Rijksvoorlichtingsdienst confirming the decision to divorce after 25 years of marriage.

How many children do Prince Bernhard Jr. and Princess Annette have?

They have three children: Isabella (23), Samuel (21), and Benjamin (17).

What is the family name of the children?

According to a royal decree, the children carry the family name Van Vollenhoven.

How might this separation impact the public perception of the Dutch royal family and its extended members?

Prins Bernhard Jr & Annette’s Children: Names & Ages