Belgian royal family reveal 'new prince' who has been kept a secret for 25 years
Topics: Documentaries, Royal Family, World News, Parenting
Madison Burgess
Featured Image Credit: VTM
Topics: Documentaries, Royal Family, World News, Parenting
There could be a new prince in town!
That's right, a very unique situation has arisen where the Belgian royal family have introduced the world to a new member - and no, this isn't due to birth or marriage.
Prince Laurent of Belgium has reportedly confirmed that he is the biological father of 25-year-old Clément Vandenkerckhove, confirming speculation that has been circulating for years.
Prince Laurent, 61, who is the younger brother of King Philippe, publicly recognised his illegitimate son in a statement released on 9 September, as per MailOnline.
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The royal confirmed the news that he had a relationship with actress Wendy van Wanten back in the 1990s, and she gave birth to Clément in 2000.
As per the publication, the statement read: "With this announcement, I acknowledge that I am the biological father of Clément Vandenkerckhove. We have spoken openly and honestly about this in recent years.
"This announcement is based on a sense of understanding and respect for those involved. It is the result of joint consultation."
He added: "I kindly request that you receive this information with the discretion that the nature of this intimate matter requires. I will not make any further statements or provide any further explanation on this matter."
25-year-old Clément has also spoken out about the bombshell revelation in a new documentary, recalling the shocking moment his mother told him the truth.
He recalled: "She said, 'Your daddy is a prince. Your daddy is that man'."
However, something rare like this happening is not a straightforward process for anyone involved, with the details still needing to be ironed out.
As he was born out of wedlock, as of right now, Clément won't be added to the Belgian line of succession, and he will not receive funding from the government, according to Tatler.
Clément also won't serve any official role in the royal family, it has been reported. However, if his dad chooses to 'legally recognise his son,' rather than simply acknowledging his paternity, the 25-year-old would then be entitled to a HRH title and referred to as Prince Clément.
He would also allegedly receive an inheritance from his father.
While it's not been publicly revealed whether or not Clément is going to be legally recognised, Belgian media have reported that a line of text appeared on the screen at the end of the documentary, hinting towards it happening.
According to HLN, the text read: "Clément’s father is aware of this documentary. They see each other regularly and are taking concrete steps toward official recognition.”
The outlet reported that 'it is therefore only a matter of time before it will be written in black and white that Clément is Laurent’s son and will become one of his heirs'.
Another standout detail from the documentary was that it was Laurent himself who had suggested taking a DNA test, kicking off this whole process. He also reportedly met his wife of 22 years, Claire Coombs, the same year Clément was born.
Although their relationship was never confirmed, Prince Laurent was spotted at events with Wendy Van Wanten in the 1990s, including attending the wedding of Prince Edward.
Tyla has contacted the Belgian royal family for further comment.