Princess Alexandra, 89, pulls out of late Duchess of Kent tribute at the last minute, sparking health fears

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 September 2026 · last updated 30 September 2026.

Princess Alexandra was named in the Court Circular as a guest at Sunday's Future Talent concert at Sinfonia Smith Square, but she did not appear, with a source saying she "unfortunately had to pull out at the last moment." The 89-year-old, who holds the distinction of being Queen Elizabeth's sole remaining bridesmaid from the 1947 wedding, has made no public appearances in nearly six months, sharpening concern about her wellbeing as her 90th birthday on Christmas Day approaches.

Her last recorded public appearance was a Buckingham Palace reception in April to mark the centenary of the late Queen's birth.

Both her brothers — the Duke of Kent, 90, and Prince Michael of Kent, 84 — were present at the concert despite her absence, joined by other family members.

Alexandra had wanted to be there for the tribute to her sister-in-law Katharine, Duchess of Kent, who died a year ago aged 92.