Prince Andrew is under increasing pressure to return his Duke of York title as a symbolic act of respect towards the victims of Jeffrey Epstein. The controversial royal, who has long been embroiled in scandal due to his association with the convicted sex offender, is being urged to make a public gesture acknowledging the suffering of Epstein's survivors.
The call comes amid renewed scrutiny of Andrew's ties to Epstein, following the release of court documents earlier this year that reignited public outrage. Campaigners argue that retaining the prestigious title—which is intrinsically linked to the city of York—is inappropriate given the seriousness of the allegations surrounding Epstein's crimes.
Growing Backlash Against the Duke
Local officials in York have previously expressed discomfort with Andrew continuing to hold the title, with some councillors calling for its removal. The latest demands add to a chorus of voices questioning Andrew's position within the Royal Family following his disastrous BBC Newsnight interview in 2019.
Andrew stepped back from royal duties in the wake of the Epstein scandal and later settled a civil sexual assault case with Virginia Giuffre, though he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Despite paying a reported £12 million settlement, his reputation remains severely damaged.
A Royal Title Under Scrutiny
The Duke of York title, traditionally bestowed upon the monarch's second son, has been held by Prince Andrew since 1986. However, critics argue that the association with Epstein—who died in prison while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges—makes Andrew's continued use of the title untenable.
Buckingham Palace has remained tight-lipped on the matter, but royal commentators suggest that King Charles may eventually be forced to intervene if public pressure continues to mount. For now, Prince Andrew retains his title, though his future role within the monarchy remains uncertain.
