Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor reportedly feels “relief” that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are returning to the UK, according to a royal source.
Scandals and Downfall
For most of the year, the former Duke of York has dominated headlines following his royal downfall amid scandals connected to his past friendship with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Although Andrew has always denied the claims, the scandals cost him his royal titles and his Royal Lodge home. He is now known simply as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and lives in a modest home on the Sandringham Estate.
His situation worsened in February when he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released under investigation, and that investigation remains ongoing.
Shifting the Royal Agenda
These factors have kept Andrew in the headlines, but the former duke is reportedly hoping Harry and Meghan’s return will change that. A royal source told RadarOnline: “Andrew is under no illusion about the seriousness of his own circumstances, but Harry and Meghan returning has completely transformed the royal news agenda.”
The source added: “Suddenly everyone is talking about where the Sussexes will live, their relationship with the King and what happens with William. From Andrew's perspective, having somebody else at the centre of the royal storm inevitably provides some relief.”
Low Profile and Recent Sightings
Andrew has not publicly commented on the matter and has kept a low profile for most of the year. While he was believed to be spending much of his time at his new Marsh Farm home, it was claimed weeks ago that he had been seen house-hunting in France, reportedly in the Cannes and Nice areas.
The former prince, 66, did not join his royal relatives for the summer holiday at Balmoral in Scotland this year. Harry and Meghan are relocating back to the UK within days.
