German prince publicly opposes his son’s wedding days before the ceremony

While we’re used to decorum and friendly faces from most royals, that’s not to say the families can’t be without drama, just like any of us. However, not since Princess Diana has there been a royal fall-out worthy of world news...until now.

Prince Ernst-August Jr. of Hanover has wed Russian-born, Czech-raised Ekaterina Malysheva. Their 10 days of planned festivities will be televised, and the country is excited - all except the groom’s father, who has publicly opposed the marriage.

Prince Ernst-August V and wife Princess Caroline/ Image: Getty

But it’s nothing to do with the bride. Prince Ernst-August V, head of the now-deposed royal House of Hanover in Germany and cousin of Queen Elizabeth, is motivated by his desire to claim back royal property which was deeded to his son over 10 years ago. He told told German newspaper Handelsblatt:

“The decision was not easy for me because it concerns my son,” he told the newspaper. “But I am constrained to preserve the interests of the House of Hanover and the property, including cultural property, which has been its property for centuries.”

“I continue to hope that my son will eventually think of the best interests of our family and yield,” he added. “I am ready for discussion and reconciliation.”

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The property he hopes will be returned includes castles, and is reportedly worth over $100 million. 

In a bizarre twist of fate, Ernst August V’s own wedding to his first wife was also opposed by his father, Ernst-August IV, when he chose to marry a Swiss commoner. He divorced and then married again, but is now estranged from wife Princess Caroline of Monaco, who just so happens to be the daughter of Princess Grace. 

Prince Ernst August and Princess Caroline/Image: Getty

Yep, we know: this family’s life sounds juicier than a soap opera.