Is Princess Charlene being replaced? As Princess Caroline steps up as Monaco’s ‘first lady’, here’s what you need to know about Prince Albert’s supportive sister – and Grace Kelly’s daughter

Feb 19 , 2022

Princess Caroline appears to have stepped in to help out her brother in his wife’s absence. Photos: Getty; AP

Spotted alongside Sharon Stone and at various royal occasions, it seems the princess has taken up the mantle of Monaco’s first lady as Charlene’s mysterious absence continues

Daughter of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco, Princess Caroline has been married three times herself, and once counted Frank Sinatra and Cary Grant as friends

Princess Charlene of Monaco’s last public outing with Prince Albert was in January 2021. Now, more than a year later, speculation about her health and whereabouts continues to raise suspicion.

Prince Albert and his wife Princess Charlene of Monaco (both centre) flanked by his two sisters in 2011. Photo: AFP

Last year, she was grounded in South Africa after an apparent medical emergency which she said meant she could not fly because of possible health complications. When she returned home, the palace said she was admitted to a treatment facility as she required more care. As her absence continues to be felt, the palace has turned to a royal loyalist to fill in – Princess Caroline. Not new to the job, Caroline has been seen by her brother Prince Albert’s side at many official events which Charlene would have normally attended.

Princess Caroline and Prince Albert with Sharon Stone at a gala in Monaco. Photo: @palaisprincierdemonaco/Instagram

In January, she was at Albert’s side for the traditional boat burning ceremony which forms part of Saint Dévote’s Day. The event was also attended by Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, the relationship between the twins and their aunt believed to be growing stronger as their mum gets medical attention.

Clockwise from top left: Prince Albert, Princess Caroline, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella appear together on January 27, 2022. Photo: AFP

Here’s why Caroline is stepping up and what else we know about her …

The Grimaldi matriarch

Princess Caroline was Monaco’s first lady for a while after her mother’s death. Now she appears to be stepping into the role again. Photo: @princessecarolinedemonaco/Instagram

After Grace Kelly’s death in 1982, Caroline, who was just 25 years old at the time, was pushed into the position of the principality’s first lady. She was named president of the Princess Grace Foundation and became patron of several other charities. It was only in 2011, when Charlene Wittstock married Prince Albert, that Caroline was no longer considered first lady.

The fashion icon

With film star Grace Kelly for a mother, it’s no surprise Princess Caroline has embraced fashion and glamour. Photo: @princessecarolinedemonaco/Instagram

The Grimaldi family have always been known for their fashion sense Princess Caroline is no different. When she was younger she was applauded for her bold fashion choices, often choosing couture over comfort.

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