The royal family is taking further steps to distance itself from disgraced Prince Andrew, with the removal of his crest and banner from Windsor Castle, a move that has been described as a significant act of humiliation for the former prince.
Speaking to Fox News Digital, royal expert Helena Chard explained that the royal family’s decision to remove the crest is another form of “further shame and humiliation” for Andrew. “Another nail in the coffin. His status truly diminished,” Chard remarked, emphasizing that the royal family is “further cutting ties with Andrew to protect the monarchy.” She added, “He is slowly being banished!”
Chard went on to say that the removal of Andrew’s emblem was likely done “to prevent further public outcry and a sign that there is a moral code and no-nonsense policy within the royal family.” She also noted that the move would “cut deep with Andrew as his dear mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, is laid to rest in the crypt, St George’s Chapel. The chapel was his sanctuary and solace.”
Another royal expert, Hilary Fordwich, weighed in on the unprecedented action, calling it “really exceptionally” rare. Fordwich described it as “absolutely ghastly” for Andrew, adding that such actions are usually reserved for serious breaches, such as high treason or rebellion against the Crown, making this move an extremely rare occurrence in royal history.
“It’s not just symbolic but a substantial way the royal family is determined to now distance themselves from him, driven by Prince William,” Fordwich said, suggesting that the younger royal has played a role in pushing for this decisive action.
The removal of Prince Andrew’s crest signals a continued effort by the royal family to sever its ties with the embattled prince, who has faced public disgrace and controversy over his connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. As the monarchy seeks to preserve its reputation, these symbolic gestures underline the growing divide between Andrew and the rest of the royal family.