At just 18, Princess Andre is speaking with a depth and honesty far beyond her years — and at the centre of her story stands one woman she credits with giving her something she once lacked: safety.
In her ITV docuseries The Princess Diaries, Princess opens up about the profound bond she shares with her stepmother Emily MacDonagh, describing her as “the perfect mother figure” and someone she “respects and admires deeply.”
It’s a powerful admission — and one shaped by years of emotional complexity behind the headlines.
A Childhood Marked by Instability
The daughter of Katie Price and Peter Andre, Princess grew up under constant public scrutiny. But away from the cameras, she reveals a childhood that was far from easy.
Speaking candidly on the show, Princess admits she was exposed to experiences “children shouldn’t have to see,” and says she is still healing from what she describes as her mother’s “dark times.”
“I saw things kids shouldn’t,” she says quietly.
“I’m still healing from that.”
While expressing love for her mum, Princess doesn’t shy away from the emotional toll of unpredictability.
“She’s unpredictable and lives life like she doesn’t care,” Princess reflects.
“I love that about her — but deep down, I cry about it.”
The Woman Who Stepped In — Quietly and Consistently
Emily entered Princess’s life when she was just three years old, after marrying Peter in 2015. At the time, Emily was balancing medical training with family life — yet quickly became a steady presence for Princess and her brother Junior Andre.
Those close to the family say Emily never sought praise or recognition.
“She stepped up without complaint,” one insider explains.
“She carried huge responsibility but never made it visible.”
Princess now understands that sacrifice.
“She’s a doctor, she’s calm, she listens,” Princess says.
“She made our home feel safe.”
A Relationship Built on Trust
One of the most emotional moments in The Princess Diaries shows Princess turning to Emily — not her parents — after a painful breakup.
Through tears, Princess admits she couldn’t “picture being with anyone else.” Emily responds gently, without judgement.
“Spend time on yourself,” Emily tells her.
“You’re a big catch.”
It’s a moment that captures the depth of their bond — honest, nurturing, and grounded in trust.
Princess later explains why she sought counselling rather than leaning on her parents.
“I couldn’t just go to Dad,” she admits.
“My parents don’t like each other.”
Respect, Admiration — And Gratitude
As she’s grown older, Princess says she’s gained a deeper appreciation for everything Emily did behind the scenes.
“She knows how hard it must have been,” a family source says.
“But Emily never showed it. That’s why Princess respects her so much.”Family games
Last year, Princess summed it up simply:
“She’s the perfect stepmother. I couldn’t have asked for better.”
Looking Forward, Not Back
Now forging her own path with fashion and beauty deals — and attracting interest from TV executives — Princess is determined to build a future defined by stability, independence and emotional clarity.
Those close to her say those values were shaped at home — by Emily.
Her past may be complicated.
But Princess is no longer defined by it.
Instead, she’s choosing to honour the woman who helped her survive it — and in doing so, she’s telling a story that resonates far beyond celebrity.
A story about resilience.
About healing.
And about the quiet power of showing up — every single day.
