Prince Ernst August causes a stir at Valentino's funeral in Rome following his love breakup.

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Stars (1 / 1) 26.01.2026 14:19 / Julia

An unexpected focal point at Valentino's funeral in Rome: Prince Ernst August of Hanover captivates all eyes with a very personal appearance. Why his appearance marks two premieres and what his worry-lined expression reveals — Read on to find out the whole story!

Two Premieres in the Eternal City

On January 23, 2026, the 71-year-old Ernst August appeared at the funeral of the 93-year-old designer Valentino. It was his first public appearance in nearly a year, and simultaneously his first appearance since the confirmed end of his love affair with the sculptor Claudia Stilianopoulos. Formally, he is still considered the husband of Princess Caroline of Hanover.

Exhausted and noticeably sad

The Prince looked visibly distressed: in a simple black suit, white shirt, pocket square, and tie, with tousled, grayer hair and a bowed head. Alongside stars like Anne Hathaway, Anna Wintour, and Liz Hurley, he walked past waiting fans and photographers.