Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Public Appearance
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, previously Prince Andrew, appeared publicly for the first time since losing his royal titles.
The 65-year-old attended the christening of his granddaughter Athena, Princess Beatrice’s daughter, at St. James’ Palace’s Chapel Royal on Friday morning.
He was seen entering in a dark green Range Rover, using a side gate to avoid the media at the main entrance.
Emergence of New Photos
This appearance coincides with the release of new photos from Jeffrey Epstein’s personal collection, featuring Mountbatten-Windsor, Bill Gates, Donald Trump, Woody Allen, and others with the late convicted sex offender.
The photos were retrieved from Epstein’s email and computer by the House Oversight Committee Democrats.
In October, King Charles III officially removed his brother’s remaining royal titles due to his connections with Epstein.
Official Statement from Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace stated, “His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles, and Honours of Prince Andrew.”
“His lease on Royal Lodge has provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation.”
The statement continued, “These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.”
“Their Majesties wish to express their deepest sympathies to the victims and survivors of any form of abuse.”
Details of Title Removal
The removal affected titles such as Prince, Duke of York, and others, along with honors like the Order of the Garter.
Mountbatten-Windsor is expected to vacate Royal Lodge by January 31, relocating to Sandringham estate. His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will make her own arrangements as her Duchess of York title was also removed.
King Charles’ decision, supported by Prince William, followed “serious lapses of judgment” by Mountbatten-Windsor. His daughters, Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, retained their titles.
Mountbatten-Windsor’s Response
Mountbatten-Windsor did not oppose the title removal. He acknowledged that ongoing accusations distracted from royal duties.
In a statement, he emphasized prioritizing family and country, agreeing not to use his titles or honors.
Previously, in 2022, he lost military titles and royal patronages after stepping back from duties following an interview about Epstein.
Virginia Giuffre’s lawsuit against him for sexual assault was settled out of court, and her memoir has renewed interest in his ties to Epstein.