PRINCESS CHARLENE’S SECRET BOND WITH GRACE KELLY
After years of turmoil, the Monaco royal has found spiritual guidance from an unexpected source
For years, Princess Charlene has been plagued by serious health problems, including a stint being treated for “exhaustion” in a Swiss health retreat. But according to royal watchers, the South African-born beauty, 45, has had a miracle transformation and is back to her glamorous best, attending glitzy events such as the Princess Grace Awards in New York and the Monaco Grand Prix.
The secret behind this sudden transformation? Her increasing devotion to her Catholic faith, as well as guidance from the late Grace Kelly!
FINDING RELIGION
“Serious illness and other personal problems, including marital issues, have prompted Charlene to turn to God as much as she can,” a source in Monaco reveals, adding that she has become close to Father Cesar Penzo, the palace chaplain since 1958.
“Not only has Father Penzo reconciled Charlene with the Catholic religion, but he has also helped her connect spiritually with Princess Grace, who is now guiding Charlene along the rocky road of life in Monaco.
“Father Penzo was a close confidant and guide for the young Grace Kelly, who, like Charlene, arrived in Monaco not speaking the language or knowing the codes for royal life in the principality.”
Charlene has struggled since her wedding to Prince Albert II, 64, when she was dubbed “the runaway bride” after trying to flee multiple times before the nuptials. She was then hit with claims that Albert fathered two lovechildren – Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, now 30, and Alexandre Coste, 19 – and the princess shaved her hair off shortly afterwards.
“Father Penzo has helped Charlene take a step back and see that life in Monaco is like Game Of Thrones, with traps to be dodged and plots to be thwarted,” says our insider.
“With his advice, Charlene has a new team of five close advisors and secretaries. Everyone, including Albert’s sisters, Princesses Caroline and Stephanie, must pass by this team to plan anything in Monaco.”
Charlene has investigated Grace’s life and behaviour, altering how she acts to mirror the late princess, working hard to form a bond with the Monégasque people just like Grace did.
“Now locals are amazed to see Charlene strolling in the streets of Monaco, stopping for a coffee and chatting with people or eating a salad for lunch by the port on her own.
“Father Penzo has found the words to give Charlene faith and confidence. He has metamorphosed her. She no longer fears the local population and she’s found a life of her own.”
FAMILY AROUND HER
Adding to her confidence, Charlene’s folks have moved more than 12,000km from their home in the suburbs of Johannesburg to live permanently in Monaco. The proximity of her parents Lynette, 63, and Mike, 76, who have joined her brother in the principality from their native South Africa to support the princess, “has
‘Charlene has found a life of her own’
made the world of difference to Charlene”, a palace source tells.
“The Wittstocks have moved into a house that’s just a few minutes’ drive away from Charlene and they meet all the time.
“They make her feel safe and secure, reminding her of the carefree life she enjoyed in South Africa before becoming a princess.”
It seems after years of struggle, hardship and illness, the princess has finally found happiness.