Family and friends fear for the explorer’s welfare as he remains unreachable in care homes
Category: Health
Family and friends of renowned British explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes have expressed deep concern for his welfare, stating they have been unable to visit or contact him for months. The 82-year-old explorer, known for his record-setting expeditions, has reportedly been admitted to multiple care homes under assumed names, allegedly orchestrated by his second wife, Louise Millington-Cotes. This situation has raised alarms about his isolation and care arrangements.
Sir Ranulph, who has not been seen in public for nearly two years, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019. His stepson, Alex Millington-Cotes, has voiced his concerns, stating that the power of attorney should be transferred from his mother to individuals who genuinely have Sir Ranulph's best interests at heart. "He’s not an isolated type of person, and so to see him isolated now is very painful," he said in an interview.
Reports indicate that King Charles, a friend of Sir Ranulph, attempted to check on his welfare but was reportedly told to "back off" by Millington-Cotes. The situation has drawn attention from various authorities, with multiple requests made to check on Sir Ranulph’s wellbeing, yet the Office of the Public Guardian has refused to investigate, citing that the case falls outside its remit.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes has long been celebrated as one of the world’s greatest explorers. He was the first person to reach both the North and South Poles by surface means and has completed some of the most daring expeditions in history. Born in 1944, he inherited the baronetcy of Banbury after his father's death in World War II. His illustrious career includes numerous records for endurance and exploration, making him a national hero.
Following his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease, Sir Ranulph retreated from public life, with his last known appearance being months after his diagnosis. His family has voiced concerns that his wife has placed extreme restrictions on his care, preventing him from seeing friends and family, which is alarming for those who know his vibrant spirit.
Arabella Pepper, the younger sister of Sir Ranulph's late first wife, expressed her frustration at being unable to see him for over a year. She noted, "All his friends and family want to see him and take him Toblerones and cheer him up, but we don't know where he is, and he's not available, he's not accessible - that's what worries us." In a rare visit, she was able to see him in July 2025 after admitting herself to a care home where she believed he was staying.
As concerns continue to grow, Alex Millington-Cotes has launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover legal fees aimed at locating and safeguarding his stepfather. He described the fundraiser as a response to their "concern and desperation" after exploring multiple avenues to locate Sir Ranulph. The campaign has gained traction, raising nearly £20,000 as of early October 2026.
Leading adventurers, including Bear Grylls and Ben Fogle, have also called for an investigation into Sir Ranulph's care arrangements. Their involvement has amplified the voices demanding accountability and transparency in his treatment. A care home manager previously reported concerns about Sir Ranulph’s wellbeing to authorities, indicating that he may have been unlawfully deprived of his liberty.
As this situation develops, Sir Ranulph’s family and friends remain hopeful for a resolution that will allow them to reconnect with him. The explorer’s legacy as a pioneer of exploration is overshadowed by the current turmoil surrounding his care. His stepson’s determination to challenge his mother’s authority reflects a broader concern for Sir Ranulph’s rights and dignity.
With the crowdfunding effort underway and increasing public scrutiny, the next steps for Sir Ranulph are uncertain, but his family remains committed to ensuring his safety and wellbeing. As Alex Millington-Cotes stated, "Ran has spent his entire life pushing boundaries for others and representing the best of human endurance. Now, he needs us to fight for him." The public awaits clarity on Sir Ranulph's situation as the campaign continues to gain support.