Prince Andrew’s scandal and connection to Jeffrey Epstein led to the Duke of York’s banishment from British royalty.
But recent moves by King Charles suggest the monarch is considering ‘forgiving’ him.
Most recently, Queen Elizabeth’s 63-year-old youngest son was spotted alongside Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton at a royal event in Scotland.
The family attended a service at Crathie Church in Balmoral, which the Duke of York was determined not to miss. Andrew arrived at the church in a car driven by William, while Kate sat in the back.
Prince Andrew in Balmoral
According to Page Six, King Charles invited his younger brother to join senior members of the royal family for the traditional summer break in Scotland.
The same media outlet cites a Daily Beast source who reveals that while Andrew no longer has a ceremonial role within the British monarchy, he is still part of the royal family. He has also not been found guilty of any crime, suggesting that the king is unlikely to abandon his younger brother during his reign.
“He (Andrew) is part of the family. He is the king’s brother. He has not been found guilty of any crime and I think it is fair to say that the king is making it clear that he will not turn his back on his brother,” the source said.
Andrew was relieved of his official duties with the monarchy in 2019 due to the scandal involving sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and serious allegations from Virginia Giuffre, who claimed the prince had intimate encounters with her when she was a minor.
The Duke reached a financial settlement with Giuffre to avoid prosecution, but his reputation was permanently damaged.
Many have criticized the royal family, and Prince William in particular, for this new closeness with Andrew.
While the situation remains complicated, this latest twist in the family dynamic suggests that there may be an opportunity for reconciliation.
Time will tell if King Charles decides to fully pardon Prince Andrew, although it is impossible for him to return to his royal duties.
