Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, continues to be a point of contention within the royal family, with experts claiming he embodies the “worst, most entitled aspect of royalty” and that his role in the monarchy is effectively over. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams didn’t hold back in his assessment of King Charles’ younger brother during an interview with The New York Post.
“Andrew has been an embarrassment for years and represents the worst, most entitled aspect of royalty,” Fitzwilliams said, referencing the controversies that have plagued the prince in recent years. However, he acknowledged that King Charles “may privately feel some sympathy” for his younger sibling, despite the ongoing public and internal pressure. Still, Fitzwilliams was clear about the future: “His best future is well behind him.”
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The remarks follow years of scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, particularly his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and a now-settled civil lawsuit in the United States. Though he has stepped back from royal duties and been stripped of military titles and patronages, public scrutiny and royal family tensions persist. Royal expert Helena Chard added to the growing chorus of voices calling for Prince Andrew’s permanent exclusion from royal affairs.
“King Charles is said to be fed up with ‘the Andrew problem,’ although he has a softer approach to his brother as he is family,” Chard explained. Yet it appears the generational shift in the monarchy brings less tolerance. “Prince William, however, has never been a fan of his uncle. He has no time for him,” Chard claimed. “Allegedly, he was also disappointed that Andrew did not welcome his wife into the family with open arms all those years ago.”
According to Chard, Prince William sees Andrew as a “complete liability,” one whose presence undermines the integrity and image of the royal family. “His stance towards his uncle is tough. He will not entertain anyone toxic to the brand,” she added. “Andrew will not be part of the streamlined monarchy.”
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The concept of a “streamlined monarchy” has been a key feature of Charles and William’s long-term royal strategy — one aimed at maintaining public support while reducing the number of working royals. As King Charles continues to undergo treatment for cancer and Prince William steps further into the public spotlight, analysts suggest Prince Andrew’s exile from royal life is not only permanent but essential to the future of the institution.