Princess Stéphanie of Monaco marks her 60th birthday on February 1, 2025, reflecting on a remarkable life defined by resilience, creativity, and commitment to family. Known as the rebel of the Grimaldi family, Stéphanie has carved her unique path within the royal legacy, often under the watchful eyes of the media.
Born Stéphanie Grimaldi on February 1, 1965, she is the youngest child of Prince Rainier III and the late Hollywood icon, Grace Kelly, also known as Princess Gracia Patricia. Her cherished upbringing took a devastating turn when she lost her mother at the tender age of 17 due to a tragic car accident on September 14, 1982, which left her with severe injuries. This trauma bonded her closer to her father, shaping their relationship for years to come.
Despite the struggles she faced early on, Stéphanie would soon make headlines for her bold choices. After experiencing the painful loss of her mother, she chose to pursue her passion for fashion and music rather than strictly adhere to royal protocols. She began her career as a model, working for elite brands like Christian Dior, and even created her own swimwear line.
Stéphanie transitioned to music, achieving notable success with her songs "Ouragan" and "Irresistible" during the 1980s. She made headlines with her unique approach to both the fashion and music industries, embracing her identity as the "wild princess". Her mother’s legacy clearly influenced her, yet she worked hard to establish her identity separately.
At the center of her public image was her choice of romantic partners, often dipping outside of royal norms to date figures from diverse backgrounds, including bodyguards and circus performers. Her first significant relationship was with the French racing driver, Paul Belmondo, and she later married her bodyguard, Daniel Ducruet, with whom she had two children, Louis and Pauline. The marriage ended quickly after Ducruet's infidelity brought their union to distress.
Stéphanie pursued love again, but faced more relations rooted within the unconventional; she had children with yet another bodyguard, yet these partnerships were also short-lived. The princess later had relationships with individuals from the entertainment and circus worlds, showcasing her preference for heartfelt connections over traditional royal expectations.
Besides her tumultuous love life, Stéphanie remained committed to her family, and her dedication to her children is evident. Today, she has three grown children, Louis Ducruet, Pauline Ducruet, and Camille Gottlieb. The arrival of her two granddaughters has reignited her sense of fulfillment; 'Family gives me incredible happiness', she has said.
After years of living under the spotlight, Princess Stéphanie has transitioned to embrace her role as matriarch and humanitarian. Her commitment to philanthropy took shape with the founding of the Fight Aids Monaco foundation, which addresses HIV and AIDS issues—efforts recognized globally, as she also serves as the UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador.
Stéphanie's transformation has been remarkable as she navigated the shift from hot-headed youth to the loving grandmother and altruistic figure she is today. Today, she often speaks about how important family and compassion are. She has consistently said, 'Motherhood is the most beautiful job.' Her perspective has been shaped by her childhood losses and experiences, driving her to support those around her.
Celebrated for her nurturing spirit, Stéphanie currently enjoys her role as Head of the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo and highlights the life's passion she has for the circus arts. This is deeply interwoven with her own family's history and her core identity.
On her 60th birthday, Stéphanie stands as a strong figure among the Grimaldis, embodying the dynamism and compassion expected of her lineage. Remembered for her resilience and determination to live authentically, she looks forward with optimism. Despite the milestones and challenges she has weathered, Stéphanie remains grounded and cherishes every moment with her family.
With her significant birthday here, the world can see Stephanie's true self—a blend of royal dignity and familial warmth. Though her colorful past was marked by upheavals and challenges, her present radiates strength and love. Today, she not only celebrates her life but acknowledges the lessons learned and the joys of being surrounded by family and love.