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Prince Andrew’s past associations with Jeffrey Epstein have finally caught up with him, resulting in his inability to retain the use of his royal title. Following a series of allegations and controversies, Andrew met with King Charles III and it was mutually decided that he would step back from using the title Duke of York. “After discussions with The King and my extended family, we have agreed that the ongoing allegations surrounding me detract from the important work of His Majesty and the Royal Family,” Andrew stated in a statement released on October 17, 2025. He also declared, “I will therefore cease using my title or any honors bestowed upon me,” while continuing to deny all allegations against him.
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It was initially presumed that Andrew’s title would remain intact, as only Parliament holds the authority to officially revoke his dukedom. Nonetheless, Andrew and his family have collectively decided to relinquish the title voluntarily, avoiding governmental intervention. His former wife, Sarah Ferguson, will similarly discontinue the use of her title as Duchess of York. Despite this, the couple will maintain their residence at the Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor, which is under Andrew’s private lease.
According to CNN, a royal insider mentioned that Prince Andrew will no longer participate in the family’s traditional Christmas celebration at Sandringham. Andrew’s tarnished reputation has dominated headlines for years, leading to the loss of his Duke of York title. This action is not the first the royal family has taken against him. In January 2022, Queen Elizabeth II removed Andrew’s military titles, and he was stripped of the designation His Royal Highness, although he retained the Duke of York title at that time.
Buckingham Palace previously stated on the royal family’s official website, “With The Queen’s approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and Royal patronages have been returned to The Queen.” They further clarified, “The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen,” referring to the legal proceedings and sexual assault allegations made by Virginia Giuffre.
Queen Elizabeth II previously stripped Andrew of a title
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If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, support is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
“With The Queen’s approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and Royal patronages have been returned to The Queen,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement on the royal family’s official website. “The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen,” they added, referring to his lawsuit and sexual assault allegations from Virginia Giuffre.
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).
