In 2025, it will be twenty years since Albert II ascended the throne of Monaco. During this time, the principality has repeatedly drawn intense media attention—not so much for political decisions as for the turbulent private life of its ruler. Raised in an environment of restraint and secrecy, Albert II always tried to stay out of the spotlight, but fate had other plans: his name has often appeared in tabloid headlines, and scandals and rumors have become an integral part of his biography.
In July 2011, Albert II married South African swimmer Charlene Wittstock, who is twenty years his junior. This union raised many questions: why did the prince hesitate to marry for so long, and was there real affection between the couple? Society speculated about a marriage of convenience and even claimed that Charlene allegedly tried to flee Monaco on the eve of the wedding but was stopped in Nice. These rumors only fueled interest in the couple and sparked new speculation about life behind the palace doors.
Illegitimate children
However, the real upheavals began even before the wedding. Shortly before Albert became prince, it emerged that he had an illegitimate son born in 2002 to Nicole Coste, a flight attendant from Togo. The boy, now twenty-three, has been officially recognized by Albert but is ineligible for the throne due to the nuances of Monaco’s Constitution. This revelation was a genuine sensation and sparked a storm of discussion both in Monaco and beyond.
In 2006, another story shook the princely family: a DNA test confirmed Albert’s paternity of Jazmin Grace, the daughter of American Tamara Rotolo. The girl, born in 1991, was also acknowledged by the prince, but like her half-brother, she cannot lay claim to the throne. Over the years, other claims of possible paternity by Albert have surfaced, though not all of them have been substantiated.
A history of romantic conquests
The prince’s personal life has always been eventful. He has been linked with well-known actresses, models, and singers. His rumored relationships included Catherine Oxenberg, Brooke Shields, Ana Obregón, Lisa Marie Presley, Sharon Stone, Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, Kylie Minogue, and other celebrities. Each new romance sparked gossip and speculation, and Albert himself was in no hurry to comment on his private affairs.
At certain times, rumors about his possible nontraditional orientation surfaced in the press, yet no evidence was ever found to support this. Nevertheless, such talk only fueled the public’s fascination with the prince and those around him.
Family dramas
The family life of Albert and Charlene has repeatedly drawn public attention. Since their wedding in 2011, the media have regularly reported on tensions in the couple, on Charlene’s alleged attempts to leave the principality, and suggestions that their relationship is merely formal. Nevertheless, the pair continued to appear together at official events, presenting a united front before the cameras.
In recent years, observers note that the situation has stabilized. The princely couple are raising two children and strive to keep their private issues out of the public eye. However, rumors about tensions in their relationship and possible new affairs involving Albert still persist.
Двадцать лет на троне
Despite all the scandals, Albert II has been at the helm of Monaco for two decades. His reign has been marked not only by personal dramas but also by efforts to modernize the principality, making it more open and contemporary. Still, for many residents and visitors, the prince’s private life remains the most talked-about topic.
Public debate continues: can Albert II be considered a worthy heir to the dynasty when his name is constantly linked to high-profile scandals? Or has he managed to maintain stability in the principality precisely because of his charisma and ability to navigate difficult situations?
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Albert II is the reigning Prince of Monaco and a member of the Grimaldi dynasty. He was born in 1958, the son of Prince Rainier III and the legendary Grace Kelly. During his years in power, Albert II has been actively involved in charity, supported environmental projects, and participated in international initiatives. Despite personal challenges, he remains one of the most prominent figures in European aristocracy.
