Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the 82-year-old renowned explorer, has not been seen publicly for over two years, with his family and prominent friends now urging police to investigate concerns about his isolation and welfare. His stepson, Alexander Millington-Cotes, claims that Sir Ranulph's second wife, Louise, has become increasingly controlling and has restricted his access to family and friends, reportedly moving him between care homes under a false name. The situation has garnered significant public attention, with fellow adventurers including Bear Grylls and Ben Fogle calling for urgent investigation by police and the Office for the Public Guardian.

Since Louise Millington-Cotes was granted lasting power of attorney in 2024, Sir Ranulph has been kept in a succession of care homes, with the Care Inspectorate concluding he was unlawfully deprived of his liberty. Mr Millington-Cotes has attempted to contact both Cheshire and West Mercia police forces for months without success, though a crowdfunded legal campaign has now raised over £15,000 in support. Sir Ranulph, often described as the world's greatest living explorer, achieved remarkable feats including climbing Everest at age 65 and completing seven marathons across seven continents, making the circumstances particularly poignant to his many admirers.