London (The COW News Digital) In a dramatic move aimed at protecting the monarchy’s public image, King Charles III has officially stripped his younger brother, Prince Andrew, of the title “Prince” and ordered him to vacate his royal residence, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Friday.
According to a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Andrew will now be referred to as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and will no longer carry the title “Prince.” The announcement also confirmed that he will be leaving the Royal Lodge, his long-held residence in Windsor, and move into private accommodation.
“The steps taken were deemed necessary to preserve the integrity and dignity of the monarchy,” the statement read, underscoring the palace’s effort to distance the royal family from ongoing controversies surrounding Andrew’s past associations.
The decision follows years of public and media scrutiny over Prince Andrew’s ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Duke of York had already relinquished his military affiliations and royal patronages in early 2022, after facing accusations of sexual misconduct — allegations he has consistently denied.
In recent months, mounting pressure from both the public and within royal circles had intensified, with calls for the King to take further action. Reports suggest that King Charles viewed the move as essential to safeguarding the monarchy’s reputation amid renewed criticism and the continuing fallout from Epstein-related scandals.
Earlier this year, Andrew stepped back from all official royal duties and had stated that, while he would retain his title “Prince,” he would no longer use it publicly. However, the King’s latest directive formally ends that privilege.
Royal experts describe the decision as “unprecedented in modern royal history,” symbolizing King Charles’s determination to modernize the monarchy and ensure it remains accountable and credible in the eyes of the public.
A source close to Buckingham Palace told The COW News that the King’s decision was taken “after careful consideration and consultation,” adding that it was “the only way forward” to protect the royal institution from further reputational harm.
Prince Andrew has not yet commented publicly on the development. His removal from the royal household marks a significant fall from grace for the once-celebrated Duke of York, whose life has been overshadowed by scandal and controversy in recent years.
