King Charles has reportedly permitted Prince Andrew to continue hosting royal shooting parties, even as he distances himself from his younger brother in other aspects of family life.
Despite Andrew’s highly publicized fall from grace following his ties to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, the monarch is said to be maintaining his brother’s long-standing privileges at royal estates. According to reports, Andrew will continue to oversee gatherings, including his traditional “family day” at Windsor, held shortly after the pheasant season begins in November.
While Charles has made efforts to keep Andrew and his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, at arm’s length from high-profile family occasions, sources suggest he has avoided taking a hard line in private. Many believe this balancing act is designed to protect family harmony while limiting public controversy.
The Daily Beast reported that Andrew remains in charge of such events despite losing his HRH status and military titles in January 2022. Shooting parties are considered socially important within aristocratic circles, often serving as opportunities to maintain personal and political connections.
Royal biographer Andrew Lownie commented on the King’s approach, telling the publication: “King Charles does not want to antagonise his younger brother entirely, but he needs to recognise that the public wants some answers about the Yorks’ connections with Jeffrey Epstein and how they have exploited their royal status for personal financial gain.”
While Andrew has held onto his hosting role, he is believed to be facing a future with even less visibility. Reports indicate that the King would prefer both Andrew and Sarah Ferguson to adopt what sources have called an “out of sight, out of mind” role at family gatherings.
The Sunday Times quoted a source who explained that discretion will be expected at any events they attend. “You can’t sack someone from being your brother. But this year, if the duke and duchess were both to be as honourable [as last year], it would be very much for the best,” the source said.
Charles has reportedly instructed that the couple, who divorced in 1996, use discreet entrances and exits at royal occasions where possible to avoid drawing attention.
The Prince of Wales is also understood to support this approach, reportedly expressing concern that Andrew’s past behavior poses a lasting reputational risk to the monarchy.
For now, Prince Andrew remains present behind the scenes at traditional country pursuits, though his place in the royal spotlight appears increasingly diminished.