An upcoming documentary about the life of Belgian Prince Laurent, entitled “Laurent: The leftover prince”, alleges that the Belgian royal suffered sexual abuse in the hands of a foster family.
The new series is due to be broadcast on Canvas and is made in collaboration with Jan Van den Berghe, a specialist on the monarchy. The Belgian prince, younger brother of King Philippe and once third in line for the Belgian throne, is a famous ecologist also known for his chequered and polemic time in the limelight.
Prince Laurent (59) has refused to confirm the veracity of the claims made by the documentary, which has yet to air, but stated that he had no part in its production. In a press release, the Prince said that he is “not interested” in the four-part programme made by VRT, who he accused of profiteering from his image.
“Following numerous questions from journalists I would like to point out that I did not take part in the VRT report about me and that I am not interested. Only I know my life and I don’t need a report that only aims to gain ratings.”
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The first episode of the documentary will air on 19 April in Flemish, featuring 24 guests, including former classmates, royal experts, and former or current politicians. The documentary crew previously produced a four-part series on King Philippe.
The documentary will notably look at the consequence of the abolition of Belgium’s Salic Law, which reserved the throne for men. The decision to allow for women in the line of succession ultimately caused the Prince to drop two places in his succession to the throne. The programme will also touch on his turbulent popularity, commitment to animals and ecology, and his many relationships.
“The series portrays Prince Laurent in a respectful way but makes no concessions,” VRT stated. The broadcaster characterises the Prince as “at times uncontrollable.”
