Prince Andrew Spotted Post-Titles Amid Epstein Controversy; William & Kate Maintain "Duty of Care" for Royal's Welfare

Prince Andrew's Rare Public Outing Sparks Renewed Discussion Amid Epstein Scandal

Britain's former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been seen publicly for the first time since being stripped of his royal titles and directed to vacate the Royal Lodge. This marks a notable appearance amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding his past ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as reported by Birmingham Live. Photographed engaging in horse-riding on the sprawling Windsor estate, this outing has reportedly elicited complex reactions, even from his close neighbours, Prince William and Princess Kate.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, who recently relocated to the nearby Grade II-listed Forest Lodge, are said to be upholding a sense of responsibility for Andrew's well-being, despite evident family strains. Andrew has consistently faced intense scrutiny regarding his association with Epstein, famously stating, “I vigorously deny the accusations against me.” However, his non-compliance with an interview request from the US House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, currently investigating Epstein's associates, has drawn considerable criticism from its members.

Democratic members of the committee had formally requested a transcribed interview concerning his long-standing relationship with Epstein, a request Andrew has yet to honour, leading to growing frustration within the inquiry, according to The Times.

Royal Family's "Duty of Care"

Speaking to the Mirror, former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond shed light on the delicate family dynamics. “While there is no love lost between William, Catherine, and Andrew, my understanding is that they, and the rest of the royal family, believe they still have a duty of care for his welfare and mental health,” Bond explained. She described Andrew as increasingly isolated, depressed, and solitary, adding, “It’s not his fault if photographers are ready to pounce when he ventures out, and I don’t think the Prince and Princess would begrudge him a ride around the park for some fresh air.”

Andrew is reportedly preparing for a significant move from the Royal Lodge, his home for over two decades, to a more modest residence on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk. Royal commentators suggest this relocation will alleviate some tension for the Prince and Princess of Wales. Bond remarked, “Obviously it would be more convenient if it wasn’t on their doorstep, but they know this is temporary.”

Reputational Concerns and Royal Distancing

The renewed media attention surrounding Andrew's public outing is believed to be a source of displeasure for King Charles. Bond highlighted this, stating, “It is unfortunate that pictures of Andrew are in the press again, drawing attention away from the work the rest of the family are doing. It would be preferable if he were seen engaging in charity work or some other productive activity.”

An anonymous royal insider, quoted by the Daily Mail, underscored the negative public perception generated by photographs of Andrew riding on the taxpayer-funded Windsor Castle grounds, suggesting it does not present a favourable image.

Prince William is widely understood to have played a pivotal role in the decision to strip Andrew of his royal titles. Author Andrew Lownie, who penned the biography Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, informed the Mirror that, “From what I know of him and his father, William would have played quite an active role in stiffening Charles’ resolve.” Lownie suggested that Andrew's initial voluntary surrender of titles was deemed insufficient, prompting King Charles to recognize the severity of the situation, especially as continuous press coverage diverted attention from other royal responsibilities.

Princess Kate Middleton is also reported to have fully supported King Charles III’s decisive action, actively distancing herself from Andrew to safeguard the monarchy's standing. Lownie concluded, “They do not want further reputational damage from being linked to him.”