Prince William's University Friend Ben Duncan Left £90,000 Estate After Hotel Fall

Ben Duncan, a former contestant on Big Brother and a friend of Prince William from their time at the University of St Andrews, died at the age of 45. His estate, after the settlement of debts and expenses, was valued at £91,683. Duncan died in October 2025 after falling approximately 100 feet from the rooftop bar of the Trafalgar St James hotel in London.

The High Court granted administration of Duncan's estate to his mother, Monica Duncan, in July of this year. Court documents reveal the gross value of his assets was £218,450. At the time of his death, Duncan was living in a flat in Pimlico, central London.

Police were called to the Hilton hotel shortly before he was found. The Metropolitan Police stated that despite efforts by emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His death was treated as unexpected but not suspicious.

Duncan gained public attention during the 11th series of Big Brother in 2010. Known for his posh demeanor and sarcastic wit, he frequently clashed with other housemates. Following his Big Brother appearance, he also featured on shows like Celebrity Coach Trip and Come Dine With Me.

Duncan was also known for his connections to the royal family, having attended university with Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales. He recalled Prince William as being social and low-key during their university years and described the future princess as a "jolly-holly hockey sticks girl" and a natural leader.

An outpouring of tributes followed his death. Broadcaster Mike Hollingsworth, whom Duncan considered a "second father," remembered him as someone who "lived life like Peter Pan." TV presenter Josie Gibson, a fellow Big Brother contestant, described Duncan as "one of the most unique, hilariously funny, dry-witted guys I know."

An inquest into Mr. Duncan's death is scheduled to open later this year.