Relatives of renowned British explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes have voiced deep distress over their inability to visit him, alleging he has been placed in care homes under assumed names following a family dispute. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, his former sister-in-law revealed that she does not know his current location and that access has been impossible.

Concerns have been escalating in recent weeks, particularly after a report in The Telegraph detailed worries from Sir Ranulph's inner circle. The explorer, 82, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2020, has not been publicly seen for nearly two years. His former sister-in-law described the situation as "very painful" and expressed a desire to "cheer him up," but stated they are unable to locate him.

Sir Ranulph's stepson, Alex Millington-Cotes, has called for the removal of power of attorney from his mother, Louise Millington-Cotes, and its transfer to individuals who prioritize Sir Ranulph's best interests. He emphasized that Sir Ranulph is not an isolated individual, making his current seclusion particularly troubling.

Cheshire Police have acknowledged awareness of the concerns surrounding Sir Ranulph. However, they have stated they are satisfied that he is residing in an appropriate setting and receiving suitable care, with no immediate safeguarding issues identified.

Arabella Pepper, the younger sister of Sir Ranulph's late first wife, Ginny, shared her own difficulties in seeing the explorer. She recounted only being able to visit him in July 2025 after she admitted herself to a care home where she had been informed he was staying. Upon seeing him, she conveyed that friends and family were worried and longing to see him. Sir Ranulph reportedly responded by asking her to send his love and express his own longing to see them.

Last week, a crowdfunding campaign was launched to cover legal fees aimed at locating and safeguarding the explorer. The campaign's organizers cited "concern and desperation" after exhausting multiple avenues to find him. Sir Ranulph, a celebrated figure recognized by Guinness World Records as the "world's greatest living explorer," has a history of significant expeditions, including being the first person to visit both the North and South Poles by surface travel in the early 1980s.

Louise Millington-Cotes, Sir Ranulph's second wife, has not yet responded to the allegations or requests for comment from the BBC. The circumstances surrounding Sir Ranulph's current care arrangements and the family rift remain a point of concern for many of his friends and relatives.

The situation raises questions about the welfare and autonomy of an elderly public figure, particularly one managing a progressive illness, and highlights the challenges in ensuring access and well-being when family dynamics become strained.