Buckingham Palace has been rocked by sensational new revelations about Prince Andrew's standing among royal staff, with a former close friend of the Duke of York making startling claims about his plummeting reputation.
The damning disclosures come from wealthy businessman Robert Tchenguiz, who was once part of Andrew's inner circle but has now broken his silence about the royal's troubled relationships within palace walls.
'Loathed' by Palace Insiders
According to Tchenguiz, Prince Andrew was widely "loathed" by Buckingham Palace staff long before the Jeffrey Epstein scandal reached its peak. The businessman revealed that the Duke's unpopularity among royal employees was an open secret within palace corridors.
"He was loathed by the staff," Tchenguiz stated bluntly, painting a picture of a royal figure who had alienated those who worked closest with him.
Friendship Shattered Over Epstein Links
The once-close friendship between the businessman and prince dramatically collapsed following Andrew's connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Tchenguiz made the difficult decision to sever ties with the royal, citing the growing controversy as untenable for their relationship.
"I had to make a decision that I couldn't be associated with him," Tchenguiz explained, highlighting the moral dilemma faced by many in Andrew's social circle as the Epstein scandal unfolded.
Royal Exile and Fall from Grace
The revelations provide fresh insight into Prince Andrew's gradual isolation from royal life, culminating in his effective banishment from public duties. The Duke of York has been stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages following the settlement of his civil sexual assault case.
Despite maintaining his innocence regarding the allegations against him, Andrew's reputation has suffered irreparable damage, with these latest claims adding another layer to his dramatic fall from favour.
Palace Relations Under Strain
Tchenguiz's account suggests that tensions between Prince Andrew and palace staff were longstanding, potentially contributing to the swiftness with which the institution distanced itself from the Duke once the Epstein scandal escalated.
The businessman's testimony offers a rare glimpse behind the royal curtain, revealing the complex dynamics that govern relationships within the House of Windsor and how personal conduct can have profound consequences for even the most senior royals.
