Principe William – Foto: Instagram
Prince William, heir to the British throne, issued an ultimatum to his father, King Charles III, demanding the permanent exclusion of his uncle, Prince Andrew, from all public events of the royal family. The move comes amid controversies linked to Andrew’s past with Jeffrey Epstein, the American financier convicted of sex trafficking who died in 2019. The episode gained prominence following the funeral of the Duchess of Kent, on September 16, 2025, at Westminster Cathedral, where Andrew attended despite his resignation from royal duties in 2020.
Sources close to the palace indicate that William, 43, considers his uncle’s presence a risk to the image of the monarchy. Charles III, 76, reportedly complied with the demand during a private meeting in Balmoral, Scotland, at the end of September. The ultimatum reflects internal tensions over the management of scandals that affect institutional credibility.
William expressed reluctance to share public spaces with Andrew, including Christmas and Easter parties. The decision reinforces the heir’s role in defining royal protocols, especially after Andrew paid compensation to Virginia Giuffre in 2022, a victim of Epstein who accused him of abuse as a minor.
Background of the Epstein scandal
Andrew renounced military titles and royal patronages in May 2020 after court documents linked his name to Epstein’s network. The prince always denied irregularities, but the financial agreement with Giuffre, the value of which was not disclosed, marked his official departure.
Epstein, arrested in 2019 for child trafficking, maintained contacts with global elites. Andrew visited his residence in New Yorkork several times between 2001 and 2006, according to photos and reports.
Duchess Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s ex-wife, also faces criticism for a 2011 letter to Epstein asking for financial support despite publicly breaking up with him.
William’s firm stance
William prioritizes the modernization of the monarchy, focusing on transparency and accountability. He sees Andrew as a hindrance to public trust, according to internal reports.
- Avoid joint appearances at family events.
- Enforce exclusion protocols to protect succession.
- Consult advisors to monitor impacts on the real image.
The heir, who has taken on more duties since Charles’ cancer diagnosis in 2024, seeks to align the family with current ethical standards. This stance contrasts with Charles’ previous attempts to reinstate his brother discreetly.
Reactions at the palace
Royal aides remain officially silent on the ultimatum. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed only routine schedules for Christmas at Sandringham, no guest details.
Internally, Charles’ decision signals deference to his son. Observers note that Andrew, 65, resides at Royal Lodge but faces pressure for financial reforms estimated at £2 million.
The exclusion could extend to Ferguson, given his proximity to Epstein. Sources indicate that William monitors these ties to avoid new controversies. The episode takes place in a year of challenges for the monarchy, including attempted reconciliations with Prince Harry.
Funeral that accelerated the crisis
The funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, on September 16, exposed family fissures. Andrew sat next to William, generating photos that circulated globally.
William avoided prolonged interactions, according to videos from the event. The duchess, who has died aged 92, was a friend of Elizabeth II, making the ceremony sensitive.
Charles allowed Andrew to be present out of tradition, but the incident led to an ultimatum days later. Reports describe the meeting at Balmoral as tense, with William arguing for institutional survival.
Implications for succession
The father-son dynamic highlights William’s growing role. He coordinates agendas with Kate Middleton, emphasizing causes such as mental health and the environment.
Charles, undergoing cancer treatment, has reduced commitments in 2025. Polls show 62% approval for the monarchy, but scandals like Andrew’s reduce this index by 15 points.
Andrew can keep invitations private, but without public visibility. This distinction aims to balance family ties and royal duties.
Family dynamics in check
Relationships between Charles and Andrew persist, but subordinate to William’s agenda. The king prioritizes unity, but gives in on image issues.
Ferguson, excluded from events since 2011, supports her ex-husband financially. His email to Epstein, recently revealed, worsens the case.
William and Harry, estranged since 2020, share similar views on Andrew. None of the nephews support reinstatement. The royal family plans 12 public events until the end of 2025, with no mention of Andrew in statements.
