Prince Andrew reportedly showed reluctance in giving up his Royal title to become a commoner, as revealed in a statement from Buckingham Palace. The 65-year-old announced that he would no longer use his title or the honors bestowed upon him after discussions with King Charles and Prince William. This decision was made to prioritize his duty to his family and country.
Recalling the events of 2019 when he stepped back from public life following a controversial interview with Emily Maitlis on BBC Newsnight, the Duke of York emphasized that he has consistently denied the allegations against him. Nigel Cawthorne, the author of ‘Prince Andrew, Epstein and the Palace’, noted that the Prince’s decision seemed reluctant and belated in light of recent revelations.
Cawthorne questioned Andrew’s future at Buckingham Palace, suggesting that doors might not open for him as before. He pondered why Prince Andrew did not opt to become a commoner and take on the family name Windsor-Mountbatten, which combines the House name of Windsor with Prince Philip’s surname.
In response to accusations by Virginia Giuffre, Andrew reiterated his denial of the claims against him. Speculation about Prince Louis inheriting the Duke of York title was dispelled by Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, who deemed it highly unlikely that the York title would be used again.
The decision by Prince Andrew to relinquish his titles prompts discussion on the Royal family’s future dynamics. For the latest updates on this development, follow our live blog.