Princess Beatrice’s newborn daughter, Athena, won’t hold the title of the youngest member of the British Royal Family for much longer.
That’s right—a new royal baby is on the way!
In case you missed it, 36-year-old Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, welcomed their second child on January 22. They announced the happy news with an adorable Instagram post featuring a tiny pink baby suit.
A statement from Buckingham Palace also confirmed the baby’s arrival, announcing that Athena was born at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London, weighing “4 pounds and 5 ounces.”
At the time, much discussion surrounded the infant’s birth—especially after Royal Family followers pointed out a particularly unique detail. Athena holds the distinction of being the first royal born into Generation Beta.
For those who may need a refresher, this term refers to a new generational cohort covering babies born between 2025 and 2039. This means Athena and her peers could potentially be the first to live well into the 22nd century.
Speaking to the press recently, demographer and consultant Mark McCrindle noted that this generation will “grow up in a world shaped by breakthroughs in technology, evolving social norms, and an increasing focus on sustainability and global citizenship.”
He went on to say: “Generation Beta will also inherit a world grappling with major societal challenges. With climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanisation at the forefront, sustainability will not just be a preference but an expectation.
“This generation will be raised by Millennial and older Gen Z parents, many of whom prioritise adaptability, equality, and eco-consciousness in their parenting.” Pretty intense, right?
That being said, Athena won’t be the only royal representative of the ‘Gen Beta’ era for much longer.
Just yesterday (March 12), it was announced that Hugh and Olivia Grosvenor—better known as the Duke and Duchess of Westminster—are expecting their first child.
A spokesperson for the couple released an official statement, saying: “The Duke and Duchess of Westminster are very pleased to share that the Duchess is expecting a baby in the summer.”
“The couple are delighted with the news and are very much looking forward to starting a family together.”
Many speculate that Prince William could be named the child’s godfather, given his longstanding friendship with Hugh. William and Prince Harry have shared a close bond with him for years, and Hugh is already the godfather of their sons, Prince George and Prince Archie.
Hugh also has strong royal ties—he is the godson of King Charles III, while his mother, Natalia, is godmother to William.
He and Olivia—who reportedly met through mutual friends—exchanged vows at Chester Cathedral last June, with 42-year-old William taking on the role of usher at the ceremony.