The individual widely referred to as the "illegitimate son of Monaco" is Alexandre Grimaldi, who is the son of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
While public perception and historical terms often apply the label "illegitimate" to children born outside of marriage, Alexandre Grimaldi himself has publicly stated that he finds this term insulting. He emphasizes that he bears his father's last name, Grimaldi, asserting his recognized connection to the princely family.
Understanding the Term "Illegitimate" in a Royal Context
Historically, the term "illegitimate" referred to children born to parents who were not married. In royal and princely families, this status often carries significant implications regarding titles, inheritance, and, most importantly, the line of succession to the throne.
- Birth Outside Marriage: Alexandre Grimaldi was born in 2003 to Prince Albert II and Nicole Coste, a former flight attendant, before Prince Albert's marriage to Princess Charlene.
- Paternal Recognition: Prince Albert II publicly acknowledged Alexandre as his son. Despite this recognition, children born outside of wedlock are typically excluded from the line of succession to the Monegasque throne, as per the principality's laws. The succession rules prioritize legitimate descendants born within marriage.
- Alexandre's View: As highlighted by Alexandre himself, the use of "illegitimate" can be deeply personal and disregards the familial recognition he has received and his connection to the Grimaldi name. He believes such labeling is dismissive of his identity and his relationship with his father.
Key Facts About Alexandre Grimaldi
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alexandre Eric Stéphane Grimaldi-Coste |
| Parents | Prince Albert II of Monaco and Nicole Coste |
| Date of Birth | August 24, 2003 |
| Family Ties | Half-brother to Jazmin Grace Grimaldi (daughter of Prince Albert II and Tamara Rotolo) and half-brother to Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella (twin children of Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco). |
| Succession Status | Not in the line of succession to the Monegasque throne, due to the principality's laws that prioritize children born within marriage. |
| Public Stance | Expressed that being called "illegitimate" is "insulting," emphasizing his Grimaldi surname and his acknowledged relationship with his father. |
While the historical and legal definitions may classify his birth outside of marriage, Alexandre Grimaldi is officially acknowledged as a son of Prince Albert II, bearing the Grimaldi name and maintaining a relationship with his father and the Monegasque Princely family.
