Princess Anne made headlines this week after being hospitalized due to a horse-related injury. She has been visited by her daughter, Zara Tindall, and her second husband, Sir Timothy Laurence. However, one family member who is seldom mentioned and unlikely to visit is Anne’s stepdaughter, Felicity, often dubbed as a “secret” due to her rare public appearances.

Princess Anne's stepdaughter and her mum

Anne, known for her equestrian pursuits and royal duties, married Sir Timothy Laurence in 1992 after her earlier marriage to Captain Mark Phillips, with whom she shares two children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall. Their marriage ended in separation in 1989, following revelations of Captain Phillips fathering a child, Felicity, with Heather Tonkin.

Zara Phillips wearing a horse riding hat alongside her father Mark Phillips

Despite public acknowledgment of Felicity as Mark’s daughter, she reportedly has no relationship with her half-siblings, Peter and Zara. In contrast, Anne’s children maintain a cordial relationship with their half-sister Stephanie Phillips, Mark’s daughter from his second marriage.

Princess Anne’s recent hospitalization, attributed to minor injuries and a concussion from her fall, has prompted expressions of gratitude from her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, for the medical team’s care and the outpouring of support from well-wishers.

Princess Anne on horseback at Trooping the colour