Prince Laurent Confirms Secret Son After 25 Years in Belgium

Prince Laurent of Belgium, younger brother of King Philippe, has publicly acknowledged his 25-year-old son, Clement Vandenkerckhove, whom he fathered with Belgian singer Wendy Van Wanten. This revelation, confirmed through a DNA test and featured in a recent documentary, ends decades of speculation about Clement's paternity. Clement described the emotional moment of connecting with his father, who expressed a desire for discretion and respect regarding the announcement. Laurent, married to Princess Claire with three other children, emphasized that the acknowledgment came after mutual consultation and asked for privacy. The documentary also explores the passionate relationship between Laurent and Van Wanten, including challenges they faced and the circumstances surrounding Clement's birth. This acknowledgment follows a similar 2020 royal revelation involving Prince Laurent's father, King Albert II, who recognized his own secret child, Princess Delphine.