Harriet James, a former member of the country band Pearl, TN, claims that Prince Andrew asked her a highly personal question during a dinner more than 20 years ago. In her new memoir, What Harriet Did, James recounts being seated opposite the then-45-year-old prince at a dinner near York, where she was 33 at the time. The dinner was held while Royal Ascot took place at York Racecourse during its £185 million renovation.
The Alleged Incident
According to James, the dinner was arranged because Prince Andrew was staying with mutual friends. Guests were instructed to dress in black tie, but Andrew reportedly arrived wearing 'jeans and a thick weave grey cardigan.' Seated opposite him at a narrow table, James claims his opening question was: 'How many people have you slept with?'
James responded, 'You can't ask me that! How many people have you slept with?' She says Andrew appeared taken aback, letting out a 'pompous' gasp and replying, 'You certainly can't ask me that!' The Mail's Richard Eden described the alleged behavior as 'Olympian-level crudeness.'
Context and Recent Appearances
This comes amid reports that Prince Andrew has been keeping a low profile. He was recently seen at the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials, where royal editor Rebecca English noted he was 'trying to keep a low profile' with sunglasses on. Richard Eden observed that the Duke of Edinburgh and Duchess of Edinburgh showed 'sympathy and solidarity' by his presence.
James attended the dinner with her husband, ex-racehorse trainer Ed James, and friends. Prince Andrew has been approached for comment but has not responded.
