Prince Andrew is speculated to consider a voluntary relocation abroad following the revocation of his royal titles and honors, according to his biographer. The brother of King Charles expressed that the allegations against him, which he has consistently denied, divert attention from the monarch and the broader Royal Family. Prince Andrew withdrew from public life in 2019 following a widely criticized Newsnight interview where he defended his association with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
After relinquishing his HRH style and military patronages at the direction of Queen Elizabeth II, the recent announcement signifies the end of his title as the Duke of York, among other changes. Royal biographer Nigel Cawthorne, known for his works on the royal family, suggests that Prince Andrew may have no choice but to embark on a self-imposed exile as he feels unwanted in his home country. This suggestion comes after Prince Andrew’s statement, issued through Buckingham Palace, acknowledging that ongoing accusations detract from the monarchy’s duties.
Although he will no longer go by the title of Duke of York, Prince Andrew retains his status as a prince and remains eighth in line to the throne. However, his former wife Sarah Ferguson will revert to her maiden name and lose her courtesy royal title. Additionally, Prince Andrew will no longer participate in royal events such as the Christmas celebrations at Sandringham or the annual Garter service at Windsor Castle.
The decision to strip Prince Andrew of his remaining royal duties further isolates him from the royal circle and limits his public appearances alongside other senior royals. Speculation arises about where he may find refuge, with one possibility being the Portuguese villa owned by his daughter Princess Eugenie. Calls for a reinvestigation into Prince Andrew’s connections to Jeffrey Epstein have also resurfaced, particularly in light of recent legal developments in the United States.