Ernst August de Hanovre, the 71-year-old prince, remains in intensive care at the Ruber Internacional clinic in Madrid, where he has been hospitalized since April 3, 2025. His health condition has raised concerns among his family and the public alike, especially since he was admitted to the intensive care unit, although the exact reasons for his hospitalization have not been officially disclosed.
On April 11, 2025, his youngest son, Christian de Hanovre, broke the family's silence regarding Ernst August's health. After visiting his father, Christian told reporters from Europa Press, "Tout va bien!" (Everything is fine!), a brief but reassuring statement that brought a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty surrounding the prince's condition. This message was further echoed by Claudia Stilianopoulos, a close confidante of Ernst August, who indicated that he was responding well to treatment, alleviating some of the fears that had been building up since his hospitalization.
Ernst August's health issues are not new; reports indicate that he underwent a "secret" hip operation in December 2024, which had already caused alarm among his family and friends. Following that surgery, he experienced what was described as an "alarming deterioration" in his health, prompting concerns that have lingered into 2025. However, he was reportedly observed in good form on March 21, just days before his hospitalization.
While Christian has been present at his father's side during this difficult time, the same cannot be said for his elder siblings, Ernst August Jr. and Alexandra de Hanovre. Their absence has sparked speculation about the strained relationships within the family. Ernst August de Hanovre has had a tumultuous relationship with his eldest son, which has been characterized by conflict over family matters, including Ernst August Jr.'s marriage to Ekaterina Malysheva. The prince did not attend their wedding in 2017, a decision rooted in his desire to protect the family's wealth and property.
In November 2021, the tensions escalated into a legal dispute over the management of the family estate, including the historic Marienburg Castle. Ernst August accused his son of ingratitude and demanded the return of gifts he had given in 2004 and 2006, while Ernst August Jr. countered that his father had left him with a legacy fraught with debt and legal issues. The court ultimately sided with Ernst August Jr., leading to further complications in their relationship.
Meanwhile, Alexandra de Hanovre, born in 1999 from Ernst August's marriage to Caroline of Monaco, has also distanced herself from her father. Following their separation in 2008, Alexandra grew up primarily with her mother and has since established a life away from the controversies surrounding her father. She recently attended the 69th Bal de la Rose in Monaco, showcasing her involvement in public events, yet she has not visited her father during his hospitalization, indicating a continued rift in their relationship.
As Ernst August continues to receive care in Madrid, the prince's health status remains a topic of concern for his family and the public. His son Christian's optimistic statement offers a brief respite from the anxiety surrounding the situation, yet the complexities of family dynamics linger in the background. Claudia Stilianopoulos's comments about Ernst August's positive response to treatment provide a hopeful outlook, but the road to recovery may be long, especially given the prince's previous health struggles.
Despite the current challenges, there is a sense of urgency and hope among those close to him. The family dynamics, however, suggest that the path to healing may extend beyond mere physical recovery. As the days progress, all eyes will remain on the Ruber Internacional clinic, where the future of Ernst August de Hanovre hangs in the balance.
In the coming weeks, it will be crucial to see how both his health progresses and the relationships within the Hanover family evolve. The public's interest in the prince's condition reflects not only concern for his well-being but also curiosity about the unfolding family saga that has captivated many.
As the situation develops, it is clear that the story of Ernst August de Hanovre is not just about his health; it is also a reflection of the intricate web of familial ties that can both support and strain in times of crisis. The hope remains that, regardless of the hurdles, the prince can find a way to mend his relationships while focusing on his recovery.
