In a startling new BBC documentary, esteemed journalist Emily Maitlis has laid bare the extraordinary circumstances surrounding her legendary 2019 interview with Prince Andrew about his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The Duke of York's now-infamous Newsnight appearance is being re-examined in 'The Prince and the Epstein Scandal', with Maitlis providing unprecedented insight into the palace's approach and the royal's stunning lack of self-awareness.
The Interview That Shook the Monarchy
Maitlis reveals how Buckingham Palace initially believed the interview would help repair Prince Andrew's damaged reputation following his association with Epstein. Instead, it triggered a constitutional crisis and ultimately led to his removal from royal duties.
'There was a complete miscalculation from the palace about how this would be received,' Maitlis discloses in the documentary. 'They genuinely thought this would be his redemption moment.'
Astonishing Lack of Contrition
The programme highlights the most damaging moments from the interview, including Prince Andrew's widely criticised explanation of his friendship with Epstein and his now-memorable claim about being unable to sweat.
Most remarkably, the Duke expressed no regret about his association with the disgraced financier, instead focusing on the inconvenience it had caused to his own life and royal responsibilities.
Aftermath and Ongoing Fallout
The documentary explores the immediate consequences of the interview, including:
- Prince Andrew's permanent removal from public duties
- The severing of his royal patronages
- Ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny
- Lasting damage to the monarchy's reputation
Maitlis's revelations provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the most consequential royal interviews in modern history, offering new perspective on a scandal that continues to reverberate through the House of Windsor.
