PEOPLE confirmed Beatrice will join the royal family’s Sandringham gathering instead of traveling to be with in-laws in Italy

PEOPLE previously confirmed that the Duke of York wouldn't be at the family party

PEOPLE understands that the Duke and Duchess of York won't join the royals for the holiday lunch Dec. 19

“He’s the best, a great man with a great heart, and kind,” the Duchess of York said of her ex-husband

The Duke and Duchess of York and their daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have declined the invitation from King Charles

Ferguson has opened up about her relationship with the late Queen Elizabeth II, who died in Sept. 2022

The Duke of York is mired in more scandal, and reports suggest he is being pressed to keep a low profile over the Christmas holidays

“I’m on a giant rooster!” the Duchess of York joyfully exclaimed while visiting Windsor Great Park Illuminated with her family