Could This Royal Be Avoiding Prince Andrew?
Perhaps the biggest royal scandal of the century isn't Charles cheating on Diana with Camilla or even "Megxit," but rather Prince Andrew's fall from grace. Per Town and Country, Prince Andrew is the Queen's second son, and is said by some to be her favorite.
Known as the Duke of York, Andrew was a public figure until his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein came to light in 2019. "I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission," Prince Andrew said in a statement.
Since then, not only has Andrew been out of the spotlight, but it looks like his family members are also keeping their distance. The Daily Mail reported that Prince Edward has been avoiding riding in Windsor Great Park, an activity he used to participate in frequently. With Andrew now riding in the park almost every day, some believe Edward's absence is an indication of a rift between the two.
Inside sources say Prince Edward is avoiding being around Prince Andrew.
While a royal spokesperson called the brothers' relationship "fine," an inside source close to the royal family has said otherwise. "Edward doesn't think it is wise to be seen anywhere near Andrew at the moment and he certainly has nothing he wants to say to him about the case,' the source said to Daily Mail.
Andrew is still expected to join the family for private Christmas gatherings, the outlet said. However, that might change with Andrew's upcoming court date.
As Marie Claire reported, Epstein's accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre also accused Andrew of soliciting sex from her when she was 17. Andrew has denied these allegations but also says he's not ashamed of his friendship with Epstein. A very telling statement in itself.
Looks like we'll never know if the royal family is in the "outs" with Andrew. He may never return to his official duties, but it does seem like he's mostly accepted by his family in private, at least until the court case starts.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN's National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).