Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette of the Netherlands Announce Divorce After 25 Years
In a surprising yet amicable announcement, Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette of the Netherlands have confirmed their decision to divorce after 25 years of marriage. The couple, who tied the knot in 2000, shared the news in a joint statement released by the Royal House of the Netherlands on January 23, 2026.
A Mutual Decision
"We are doing this by mutual agreement and with mutual respect," the statement read. The couple emphasized their commitment to co-parenting their three children—Isabella, Samuel, and Benjamin van Vollenhoven. They also requested privacy during this difficult time, a request that is typically respected in royal circles.
The Couple’s Background
Prince Bernhard is the second son of Princess Margriet of the Netherlands and her husband, Pieter van Vollenhoven. Following the ascension of his cousin, King Willem-Alexander, to the throne in 2013, Prince Bernhard is no longer in the direct line of succession to the Dutch throne.
Princess Annette, formerly Princess Annette van Vollenhoven, will no longer hold the title of princess following the divorce, according to Dutch broadcaster NOS. The Government Information Service (RVD) confirmed this development to the ANP news agency. Their children, however, will retain the family name van Vollenhoven and will not be affected by the title change.
A Look Back at Their Relationship
Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette first met at the University of Groningen in the 1990s. Their engagement was announced on March 11, 2000, and they tied the knot on July 8, 2000, in a civil ceremony officiated by the Mayor of Utrecht, Annie Brouwer-Korf. The marriage was blessed two days later in the Cathedral of St. Martin in Utrecht.
Family Life
The couple welcomed their daughter, Isabella, in 2002, followed by their sons, Samuel in 2004 and Benjamin in 2008. Their family life has been relatively private, with the couple focusing on their professional endeavors and charitable work.
Professional Endeavors
Prince Bernhard is self-employed and currently serves as a partner in Pinnacle real estate development in Amsterdam. He is also the founder of Lymph&Co, an organization that finances scientific research into effective treatments for lymphoma. Additionally, he founded Waterdream, a company that builds bespoke aluminium yachts.
Princess Annette has been actively involved in charitable work, serving as a member of the Papageno Foundation Advisory Council and working with the Belevenis Foundation. Her contributions to these organizations have been widely recognized and appreciated.
Public Appearances
Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette were last photographed together during the King’s Day celebration in Doetinchem on April 26, 2025. Their public appearances have always been marked by elegance and grace, reflecting their royal status and the traditions of the Dutch monarchy.
The Future Ahead
As the couple moves forward with their lives separately, they will continue to co-parent their children and maintain their respective roles in society. The divorce marks the end of a chapter for Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette, but it also opens the door to new beginnings for both.
The Dutch Royal Family has always been known for its resilience and ability to adapt to change. This recent development is a testament to the family’s strength and the personal lives of its members, who often navigate complex situations with dignity and grace.
As the world watches, the focus remains on the well-being of the children and the continued service of Prince Bernhard and Princess Annette to their communities and charitable causes.
