Influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate have returned to the United States after Romanian authorities lifted their travel restrictions. The brothers, who face serious criminal charges in Romania, arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, around midday on Thursday.
Andrew Tate, who has described himself as a “self-proclaimed misogynist,” has often credited his father’s intellect and strategic mindset, alongside his mother’s strict discipline, as key influences in shaping his worldview. His father, the late Emory Tate Jr., was a renowned chess master known for his aggressive playing style, while his mother, Eileen, raised him with a no-nonsense approach after their parents separated. This upbringing, Andrew has claimed, instilled in him a belief in dominance and control—ideas he later translated into his controversial online persona.
The Tates, holding dual US-British citizenship, were arrested in late 2022 and formally indicted last year on charges including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and rape—allegations they vehemently deny. In December, a Romanian court ruled that multiple legal and procedural errors prevented the case from proceeding to trial. Despite the charges remaining active and a second investigation ongoing, Romanian prosecutors approved a request to ease the brothers’ travel restrictions.
Addressing reporters at the airport, Andrew Tate maintained their innocence: “We live in a democratic society where it’s innocent until proven guilty. I think my brother and I are largely misunderstood.”
Emory Tate Jr
The late Emory Andrew Tate Jr., father of Andrew and Tristan, was renowned in the chess community for his exceptional skills. Born in Chicago, Emory’s passion for chess was evident from a young age. He served as a sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, where his linguistic talents in languages such as Russian and Spanish were as notable as his strategic acumen on the chessboard.
Emory’s chess career was distinguished; he was a five-time Armed Forces Chess Championship winner and achieved the title of International Master. His unconventional and aggressive playing style earned him respect and admiration in chess circles. Despite his professional accolades, Emory’s personal life faced challenges, including his separation from Eileen, which led to her relocating with their children to England. Emory continued to compete in chess tournaments until his untimely death in 2015 during a competition in California.
Both Andrew and Tristan have frequently cited their father’s intellectual legacy as a significant influence on their lives, attributing their strategic thinking and resilience to his mentorship.
Eileen Tate
Eileen Tate, mother to Andrew and Tristan, played a pivotal role in their upbringing. Following her separation from their father, Emory Tate Jr., Eileen relocated the family from the United States to Luton, England, when Andrew was 11 years old. In Luton, she worked diligently as a catering assistant to support her three children: Andrew, Tristan, and their sister, Janine.
Despite financial challenges, Eileen emphasized the importance of discipline and education. Andrew has often spoken about his mother’s influence, noting that her resilience and work ethic profoundly shaped his and his siblings’ perspectives. While Eileen has remained largely out of the public eye, her foundational role in the Tate family’s dynamics is evident.
Upon the arrival of the Tate brothers in Florida, state officials expressed immediate concern. Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a preliminary inquiry into the Tates, stating, “Florida has zero tolerance for human trafficking and violence against women. If any of these alleged crimes trigger Florida jurisdiction, we will hold them accountable.” Governor Ron DeSantis was more direct, asserting, “No, Florida is not a place where you’re welcome with that type of conduct.”
