In a dramatic move that underscores the Royal Family’s attempt to distance itself from controversy, King Charles has officially stripped his brother, Prince Andrew, of his “prince” title. Buckingham Palace confirmed on Thursday that the Duke of York will now be known simply as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.
The announcement follows weeks of renewed public scrutiny over Andrew’s past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this month, the disgraced royal relinquished his Duke of York title amid continued fallout from allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was forced to have sex with Andrew as a teenager — accusations he has consistently denied.
In a posthumous memoir released this month, Giuffre reiterated her claims before taking her own life earlier this year. Her family has since hailed her “extraordinary courage” in holding a British royal to account.
According to the Palace, the King has “initiated a formal process to remove the style, titles, and honours of Prince Andrew,” adding that formal notice has been served to surrender the lease on Royal Lodge, Andrew’s long-time Windsor residence. He will reportedly move to a privately funded home on the Sandringham Estate, courtesy of the King.
“These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him,” the Palace statement read, reaffirming its support for victims of abuse.
Andrew’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles, while his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson—formerly the Duchess of York—has reverted to her maiden name.
The UK government reportedly supported the King’s decision, viewing it as a crucial step toward protecting the integrity of the monarchy.
