Amid the joy of anticipating a new addition to the family, Princess Eugenie shared heartwarming wishes for her second son, Ernest, on his third birthday on May 30.

On her personal Instagram page, the Princess posted a carousel of four memorable snapshots, ranging from the boy playing soccer to carefree moments with balloons. Accompanying the images, Princess Eugenie expressed her immense pride while describing her son: “Happy 3rd birthday to my tiger loving, hat wearing, constantly hugging, fearless golden boy Ernie”. She further expressed her affection, adding: “You light up every room with your deep voice and infectious smile”.

This celebration comes at a time when the Princess’s family is preparing to welcome their third child. Previously, on May 4, Buckingham Palace officially confirmed the news via a statement: “Her Royal Highness Princess Eugenie and Mr. Jack Brooksbank are very pleased to announce that they are expecting their third child together, due this summer. August (aged 5) and Ernest (aged 2) are also very excited to have another sibling join the family. His Majesty The King has been informed and is delighted with the news”.

Despite enjoying the joys of motherhood, Princess Eugenie and her family continue to face significant public scrutiny. Legal scandals involving her parents—the former Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson—have severely impacted their standing within the Royal Family following the release of files concerning their alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein in October 2025.

In this complex environment, an insider shared with PEOPLE that Princess Eugenie and her sister, Princess Beatrice, are striving to protect their children from the ongoing controversy: “They have young children, and this is their grandfather — their focus is on protecting their own children from this”. Additionally, despite the mounting pressure, a family friend noted that both Princesses wish to retain their royal status, asserting: “It’s their identity”.