After much speculation, Prince Andrew has officially renounced his royal titles, including the Duke of York.
The announcement was made on the evening of Friday October 24, UK time. Prince Andrew released a statement saying that the decision had been made after discussing the matter with his brother, King Charles as well as his wider immediate family.
So what does this mean for the monarchy?
Who is Prince Andrew?
Born February 19, 1960, Prince Andrew is the third child (and second son) to the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
The first child born to a reigning British monarch since 1857, Prince Andrew was granted the title of The Duke of York upon his marriage to Sarah Ferguson in 1986. They would divorce in 1996.
During their marriage, the royal couple welcomed two children: Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
Prince Andrew is a three-time grandfather to August and Ernest (the sons of Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank) and Sienna (daughter of Princess Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi).
Having served in the UK’s Royal Navy from 1979-2001, he was then a roving UK trade ambassador until 2011.
In 2019, Prince Andrew stepped back from public duties. He stated this was due to “the circumstances relating to my former association with Jeffrey Epstein.”
Then, on January 13, 2022, he returned his military affiliations and Royal patronages to The Queen, in addition to continuing to not undertake any public duties.
What titles has Prince Andrew given up?
As per the Prince Andrew’s statement, he has given up his title of Duke of York. This effectively means that Sarah Ferguson will also no longer been known as the Duchess of York.
In addition, he has given up his knighthoods.
Prior to this announcement, Prince Andrew held a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO). He also held a membership of the Order of the Garter. The Order of the Garter is the most senior and the oldest British Order of Chivalry.
Is Prince Andrew still a royal?
Yes. As the son of Queen Elizabeth II, he is still technically a prince. As per tradition, he will continue to be referred to in that way.
However it is believed that going forward Prince Andrew will no longer attend any of the traditional celebrations held by the royal family at Sandringham.
Currently, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson continue to reside Royal Lodge.
At this stage, he remains eighth in line to the throne.
Read Prince Andrew’s official statement in full
“In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.
“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first.
“I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life.
“With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further.
“I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me.
“As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me.”
