The Wedding of the Princes and the Beginning of a Storm
In the spring of 2004, two European princes, Frederick of Denmark and Philip of Spain, married commoner women, Mary Donaldson and Letizia Ortiz. These unions seemed like a dream come true, but destiny had other plans.
The Patriarch’s Scandalous Behavior
In Spain, the behavior of King Juan Carlos tarnished the image of the monarchy. In Denmark, Prince Frederick became embroiled in a scandal that shook the foundations of the kingdom.
The Genoveva Casanova Case
Prince Frederick’s relationship with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova triggered a crisis that threatened to weaken the Danish monarchy. Casanova fled the country, but Queen Margaret managed to quell the scandal.
The Role of Mary Donaldson
Mary Donaldson, Federico’s wife, had endured years of infidelities. The Casanova scandal was the final straw for her, forcing her to confront the truth.
A String of Betrayals
Donaldson revealed a series of Federico’s infidelities, from kissing in public with other women to paying lovers to silence his extramarital affairs.
The Mood of Prince Frederick
Before marrying Mary, Frederick was known for his promiscuous behavior. He was even arrested for driving drunk and without a license, an incident that led Parliament to consider withdrawing his dynastic rights.
A Collector of Lovers
Federico had a long history of romances and shady relationships, which made his marriage to Mary seem like a facade.
The Impact on the Danish Monarchy
The Casanova scandal shook the Danish monarchy, tarnishing its reputation and calling into question Frederick’s suitability as king.
A Crown in Danger
Frederick’s conduct threatened to erode public confidence in the monarchy, putting his future and that of Denmark itself at risk.
A Legacy of Shame
Genoveva Casanova became the latest chapter in a shameful album for the Danish monarchy, a reminder of the fragility of the crown in the face of temptations and scandals.