Prince Andrew declared on Friday his intention to relinquish the use of his Duke of York title amid ongoing criticism over his actions and associations with the late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a formal statement, Andrew expressed that the persistent allegations surrounding him were diverting attention from the endeavors of his elder brother, King Charles, and the broader initiatives of the British Royal Family. Emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing his familial and national obligations, Andrew reiterated his choice made five years ago to withdraw from public engagements, stating that he would now take a further step by renouncing the title and honors bestowed upon him. He continued to vehemently deny the accusations directed at him.
The decision to forego his titles was reached after consultations with senior members of the royal family. A royal insider affirmed that the King was content with the resolution. As the son of the late Queen Elizabeth, Andrew retains his prince title and remains eighth in line to the throne.
Andrew has been entangled in controversies for an extended period. In 2022, he settled a lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual misconduct during her teenage years. Despite Andrew’s consistent denial of the allegations, the issue resurfaced with the impending release of Giuffre’s memoir. According to excerpts from the book published by the Guardian, Giuffre described Andrew as feeling entitled to engage in sexual activities with her based on his status.
Renowned royal biographer Robert Hardman highlighted the persistent nature of the scandal, asserting that both the palace and Prince Andrew have agreed on the necessity of creating further distance to address the situation. Andrew’s decision to proactively disassociate himself from certain royal duties is aimed at restoring his dignity and projecting a sense of initiative.
Having previously relinquished the title of “His Royal Highness,” Andrew will continue to reside at Royal Lodge, a substantial property within the Windsor Castle estate. However, he will no longer participate in the annual Christmas gatherings at Sandringham. While Andrew’s daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, will be unaffected by the changes, his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, will also cease being referred to as the Duchess of York.
As part of the ongoing evolution within the British Royal Family, Prince Harry and Meghan previously stepped down from official roles, contributing to a reduction in the active members of the royal household. Historian Anthony Seldon underscored the significance of Andrew’s decision, noting that such a step to relinquish a dukedom has not been taken against a senior royal for over a century.
