In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Prince Andrew confirmed that the move was made in consultation with the King and the wider royal household. He said his decision was driven by a desire to protect the monarchy and his family from further distraction.

“In discussion with The King and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded that the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family,” the Duke said. “I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to step back from public life.”

He added that, with the King’s approval, he would cease using titles and honors associated with his royal status. The Duke reiterated his denial of all allegations linked to Epstein and noted that he has never faced criminal charges in relation to the case.

Years of Controversy and Retreat

Prince Andrew’s royal role has been under scrutiny since 2019, when his friendship with Epstein became the subject of global media coverage. His attempt to defend himself in a BBC Newsnight interview that year backfired, leading to Queen Elizabeth II’s approval for him to step down from official duties.

In 2022, Buckingham Palace confirmed that he would return his honorary military titles and royal patronages to the Queen, while continuing to hold no public role. That same year, he settled a civil lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre in the U.S. for an undisclosed sum, with no admission of liability.

Life After the Scandal

Since withdrawing from public duties, the Duke has largely kept out of the public eye. He continues to reside at Royal Lodge in Windsor and attends family gatherings but has not carried out engagements on behalf of the Crown. Royal observers see his latest step as part of King Charles III’s broader effort to protect the monarchy from ongoing controversy and focus on its modernization.

Restoring Public Trust

The move to relinquish his titles is widely viewed as symbolic but significant, underscoring the royal family’s commitment to accountability and transparency. Analysts suggest it fits within King Charles’s vision of a streamlined monarchy, where only working royals represent the Crown.