Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy (Alexandra Helen Elizabeth Olga Christabel; born 25 December 1936) is a senior member of the British royal family. She is the youngest granddaughter of King George V and Queen Mary and a first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. Born on Christmas Day, Alexandra has combined private family life with decades of public service and ceremonial duties.
Early life and family
Alexandra is the daughter of Prince George, Duke of Kent, and Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark. Her early childhood was shaped by the circumstances of the wartime royal household and the loss of her father in 1942. She grew up within the extended royal family and has long-standing personal connections across Europe's reigning houses. For an official overview of her background see biographical note.
Marriage and children
In 1963 Alexandra married Sir Angus Ogilvy. The couple had two children: James Ogilvy and Marina Ogilvy. Sir Angus died in 2004; Princess Alexandra has continued to carry out public engagements and charitable work following his death. More on her family life and public appearances is available at further profile.
Public duties and patronages
Princess Alexandra has acted as a working member of the royal family for many decades, representing the sovereign at home and abroad on numerous occasions. Her public role has centered on supporting charitable organisations, hospitals, cultural institutions and voluntary bodies. She is widely respected for her steady performance of representational duties and long-term commitments to causes such as health care, welfare and the arts. An outline of her patronages and honours can be found at reference page.
Honours, style and significance
Her official style includes the title "Princess Alexandra" and the courtesy style "The Honourable Lady Ogilvy" following her marriage. She holds several senior royal honours and has been recognised for her public service over many years. As of June 2021 she was listed 56th in the line of succession to the British throne; such positions change over time as births and other events occur.
Notable facts and legacy
- Born into the House of Windsor on 25 December 1936, making her one of the few royals born on Christmas Day.
- First cousin to Queen Elizabeth II and part of an active generation of senior royals who carried out public duties through the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
- Longstanding patron and supporter of charities, with a reputation for diligence and consistency in public life.
Princess Alexandra's life illustrates the blend of private family relationships and public obligations typical of senior royal figures. Her steady presence at official engagements and charitable events has contributed to the continuity of the modern British monarchy.