Prince William is reportedly furious with Prince Andrew after the Duke of York made a surprise appearance at the Duchess of Kent's funeral alongside his former wife, Sarah Ferguson. The event, held at Westminster Cathedral on Tuesday, saw Andrew, 65, laughing and grinning, contrasting with the reserved demeanour of other senior royals.
According to royal author Andrew Lownie, William has been keen to avoid being photographed with his uncle and believes King Charles has not dealt with Andrew firmly enough. Lownie said: 'William, meanwhile, was furious at being ambushed in this way, according to friends. He has been at pains to distance himself from his uncle and not be photographed with him.'
The Duke of York faced allegations of sexual abuse by Virginia Giuffre, an accuser of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied the claims. Lownie also cited a personal element, noting that Andrew was reportedly unwelcoming and rude to Kate Middleton when William was dating her, which William has never forgotten.
King Charles, described as courteous and forgiving, is caught in a difficult position. He wants to include Andrew and Sarah in family events but is aware of the damage they cause to the royal brand. The monarch was seen chatting with both at the funeral.
Andrew and Sarah, who divorced in 1996 but still live together at Royal Lodge in Windsor, travelled together to the service. The funeral took place hours before senior royals, including William and Kate, were set to meet US President Donald Trump during his state visit.
