Prince Andrew Stripped of Royal Titles following Years of Sexual Abuse Allegations
London – Prince Andrew has been removed from royal duties and stripped of his military titles and the style of “His Royal Highness” following years of mounting allegations of sexual abuse and his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The decision, made by Queen Elizabeth II in January 2022, marks a significant fall from grace for the Duke of York and a watershed moment for the British Royal Family.
The fallout stems from Virginia Giuffre‘s accusations that she was sexually exploited by Prince andrew on multiple occasions, facilitated by Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Giuffre detailed thes alleged encounters in a civil lawsuit filed in a New York court, claiming the abuse occurred in London and the British Virgin Islands. Though Prince Andrew vehemently denied the allegations, a subsequent out-of-court settlement was reached in February 2022, the terms of which remain confidential.
giuffre’s recently released memoir, Nobody’s Girl, further details her experiences and the circumstances surrounding her interactions with prince Andrew and Epstein’s network. The book’s publication has reignited public scrutiny of the case and prompted renewed calls for accountability.
Prior to the settlement, Prince Andrew attempted to address the allegations in a 2019 BBC interview, claiming he had been friends with Epstein but denying any wrongdoing. The interview was widely criticized as tone-deaf and damaging to his reputation, ultimately leading to his removal from royal duties.
Epstein’s death by suicide in a US prison in August 2019, while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, further complicated the situation. Investigations into Epstein’s network revealed extensive connections to powerful figures, including Prince Andrew.
Beyond the Epstein scandal, a biography released in August 2025, the Rise and Fall of the House of York by historian Andrew Lownie, paints a damaging portrait of the prince, alleging a history of sexual addiction and inappropriate behavior. The book describes incidents including a visit to Thailand where Prince Andrew allegedly interacted with over 40 women, and characterizes him as easily manipulated and maintaining questionable friendships, such as with convicted arms smuggler Tarek Kaituni.
Following the Queen’s decision, Prince Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, is also expected to no longer use the title of Duchess of York, though their daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugénia, will retain their noble honors. The move underscores the Royal Family’s attempt to distance itself from the controversy and safeguard its public image.
