Step-Son of Explorer Ranulph Fiennes Seeks to Remove Wife's Power of Attorney Amid Welfare Concerns

Ranulph Fiennes' stepson is seeking to strip the famed explorer's wife of her power of attorney as concerns mount over the 82-year-old's whereabouts and welfare. Alexander Millington-Cotes has initiated a crowdfunding campaign to gather legal support for a case against his mother, Louise Millington-Cotes, who has been managing Sir Ranulph's affairs.

Revelations emerged this week that Sir Ranulph, who has not been publicly seen in nearly two years, had been residing in various care facilities under an assumed name, directed by his wife. The Daily Mail reported that Millington-Cotes, Lady Fiennes, implemented strict rules at a care home in rural Wales, requiring Sir Ranulph to remain in his room, avoid socializing, and not use communal areas. He was reportedly made to wear a disguise, including sunglasses, a hat, and gloves, when leaving his quarters.

Concerns were also raised by the owner of the Welsh care home regarding unorthodox medication arrangements and the validity of a 'Do Not Resuscitate' document provided by Lady Fiennes. The care home owner told the Daily Mail that the home had no clinical oversight of Sir Ranulph during his 49-day stay, as no doctor saw him locally and medication was supplied by his private GP in London.

Sir Ranulph's family and close friends have expressed significant worry about his isolation and physical well-being. Arabella McIntyre-Brown, the sister of Sir Ranulph's late first wife, Ginny, described the reports as "very worrying" and emphasized the need for swift action from the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).

Sir Ranulph, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019, was last seen in a pre-recorded video in October 2024, apologizing for not being well enough to attend a gala in his honor. Friends have reported difficulty contacting him since then.

Over the past year, Sir Ranulph reportedly stayed in at least five different facilities, including care homes and a hotel. Lady Fiennes, 23 years his junior, holds lasting power of attorney over his property, financial affairs, health, and welfare. Documents seen by the Daily Mail indicated that the Care Inspectorate of Wales concluded Sir Ranulph was being unlawfully "deprived of his liberty" as his wife lacked the necessary authorization for his residency.

Alexander Millington-Cotes told The Times that his "personal ambition would be to just see that power taken away from my mother" and transferred to someone who would ensure his stepfather's wishes are respected, allowing him greater freedom to socialize.

Sir Ranulph and Louise Millington-Cotes married in 2005. He has one child, Elizabeth, from his first marriage.