Lord Ivar Mountbatten’s Royal Connections and Game Play on The Traitors Leave Viewers Talking

On the premiere of The Traitors season 3, which aired on January 9, 2025, Lord Ivar Mountbatten, cousin to King Charles, made an indelible impression on both viewers and fellow contestants. Known for his deep ties to the British royal family, Ivar wasted no time bringing up his connection to Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and the complex dynamics of royal life. In a show that blends strategy, deception, and alliances, his royal background added an intriguing layer to his participation. As the first openly gay member of the aristocracy, his appearance on The Traitors not only captivated audiences but also highlighted a modern shift in royal representation.

Lord Ivar Mountbatten’s Royal Heritage

Ivar’s entrance on the reality competition show is marked by his easy mention of his illustrious surname. He casually explained to the other contestants, “I was born with a very nice last name. Mountbatten. It is one of the royal family’s surnames.” This comment immediately piqued interest as he elaborated on his royal connections. He then seamlessly linked the Mountbatten-Windsor surname to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Meghan and Harry. “Harry and Meghan’s children are called Mountbatten-Windsor. [King Charles III] is my second cousin,” Ivar explained, offering a glimpse into the complex family trees of the royal household.

While not an official working member of the royal family, Lord Ivar holds significant standing within the aristocracy, and this lineage forms the crux of his public persona. His candidness about his connections brings an air of familiarity to the series, as he openly identifies as a cousin to King Charles and a distant relative to Prince Philip, the late husband of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Mountbatten-Windsor Connection

To understand the full extent of Ivar’s royal credentials, it’s essential to trace his family’s history. Lord Ivar’s father, David Mountbatten, was the 3rd Marquess of Milford Haven, a prominent figure in the aristocracy. Ivar is also the grandson of Prince George of Battenberg and the great-great-great-grandson of Queen Victoria. His royal lineage places him as a first cousin once removed to Prince Philip and a third cousin once removed to Queen Elizabeth and King Charles.

While these royal connections may seem distant, they shape Ivar’s identity within both aristocratic and royal circles. His family ties place him at the heart of British aristocracy, even if his position does not entail royal duties. Ivar’s candid discussions about his family—especially his relationship with Prince Philip—give viewers insight into the way he navigates his place within such an illustrious family.

A Royal Breakaway: Ivar’s Personal Life

Though his royal lineage has undoubtedly shaped his public life, Ivar’s personal life has also made headlines over the years. In a move that defied conventional expectations, he revealed his past relationships during the show, offering viewers a rare and personal look into his life. Ivar was previously married to Penny Mountbatten for 17 years, with whom he shares three children. However, the couple parted ways, and in an unexpected twist, Ivar married James Coyle, making him one of the few openly gay members of the British aristocracy. His openness about his sexuality was met with a great deal of interest and support, with many seeing his story as a progressive moment for the royal-adjacent Mountbatten family.

While Ivar’s decision to marry a man was groundbreaking, it was also one that garnered significant media attention. His marriage to Coyle made the front pages, as it was a shift in a family historically bound to traditional expectations. However, in the reality TV world of The Traitors, Ivar’s narrative of love and acceptance felt empowering. Chrishell Stause, a fellow contestant, remarked that the royal family could benefit from “a little queerness,” while Bob the Drag Queen playfully dubbed him “the first gay royal.” These comments sparked a conversation about the evolving nature of royalty and aristocracy, with Ivar at the forefront of breaking down barriers.

The Traitors and the Royal Spotlight

As the game of The Traitors unfolds, Ivar’s royal background becomes a subject of intrigue among contestants. In one of the early episodes, the contestants begin to form alliances and trust—or distrust—each other based on various characteristics. The first group elimination leads to some tense moments, and Ivar’s status as a royal figure becomes part of the gameplay.

In a humorous exchange, Bob the Drag Queen quipped, “If there is anyone who can keep a secret, it is a royal,” referencing Ivar’s ability to navigate the game’s intricate dynamics. This exchange highlights the delicate balance Ivar must maintain as both a royal relative and a contestant, someone who must keep secrets while also being true to his own nature.

While he might not be an official member of the royal family, Ivar’s connection to the Mountbatten-Windsor family remains an important part of his identity. On The Traitors, Ivar’s participation shines a spotlight on the ongoing conversation about the monarchy, royal traditions, and the future of the royal family. His presence on the show offers a refreshing change, offering a glimpse into a new, more inclusive era for the royal family.

Lord Ivar’s Impact: A New Kind of Royal

Lord Ivar Mountbatten’s appearance on The Traitors is more than just a game show moment; it’s a symbol of change in the way the British aristocracy is perceived. As one of the few openly gay royals, he challenges the traditional narratives around royal family members and their roles in society. By speaking openly about his family, his personal life, and his experiences, Ivar brings a fresh perspective to the royal conversation.

Additionally, his connection to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry is an intriguing thread in the royal saga. While Harry and Meghan have often been the subject of controversy and public scrutiny, Ivar’s mention of their children—who bear the Mountbatten-Windsor surname—offers a reminder of the complex relationships within the extended royal family. Ivar’s relaxed, candid approach contrasts sharply with the sometimes rigid public persona of other royals, giving a more relatable and human face to the aristocracy.

The Future of the Royal Family

As we continue to witness royal traditions evolve, Ivar’s role in The Traitors presents an opportunity to reflect on the changing attitudes toward the monarchy. Whether or not Ivar’s royal ties influence the outcome of the game is uncertain, but his presence certainly brings a contemporary sensibility to the royal family’s otherwise buttoned-up image.

In an era where the British monarchy faces new challenges, from public relations crises to debates about its relevance, figures like Lord Ivar Mountbatten embody the complex mix of old and new. His openness, his personal history, and his royal connections are reshaping how we view not just the royal family but the broader concept of aristocracy in the 21st century.

As the show progresses, it will be interesting to see how Ivar’s royal ties play into his gameplay, but one thing is certain: his appearance on The Traitors has already left an impression that will resonate with audiences far beyond the confines of the game.