These Tragedies Led To the Demise Of Princess Anne’s First Marriage

Anne, Princess Royal's first marriage to Captain Mark Phillips came to a screeching halt after almost 20 years. These are the events that led to the demise of their relationship.

by Aramide Tinubu

Published on May 30, 2018

4 min read

First, we watched Prince William, and Duchess Kate Middleton fall in love. Now, we’re witnessing the whirlwind romance between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. Things seem so magical between the couple that it almost feels like a fairytale come to life. Still, though the royals live lush lives that we often envy from the outside looking in, things aren’t always as they appear.

In fact, when Queen Elizabeth II’s only daughter, Princess Anne, married Captain Mark Phillips in 1973, the duo seemed perfect for one another. However, the demise of their marriage and the events that led to its destruction proved to be anything but enchanting.

The perfect set-up

Britain's Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips one week before their wedding — They seemed like a great match. | STF/AFP/Getty Images

Though she was skipped in line for the throne by her younger brothers, Anne, Princess Royal made quite a name for herself in the equestrian world. In fact, she and Captain Mark Phillips met at the Munich Olympics in 1972 where they bonded over their love of horses.

They were married the following year.

Next: A very modern wedding

These Tragedies Led To the Demise Of Princess Anne’s First Marriage

The perfect set-up

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