In a historic interview with BBC Newsnight more than four years ago, Prince Andrew faced tough questions about his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his partner Ghislaine Maxwell. The interview, considered a car crash, led to Prince Andrew’s downfall and his subsequent removal from royal life. With the release of the new Netflix drama Scoop, which recounts the events surrounding the interview, there is renewed interest in the shocking moments that transpired during the interview.
During the interview, Prince Andrew admitted to visiting Epstein in New York in 2010 after he had served time in prison. Despite the controversy surrounding Epstein’s criminal history, Prince Andrew defended his decision to visit him, citing it as “the honourable and right thing to do.” However, the public response was overwhelmingly negative, with many criticizing the Duke for his poor judgement and lack of compassion for Epstein’s victims.
One of the most startling moments from the interview was when Prince Andrew was asked if he regretted his friendship with Epstein. He acknowledged Epstein’s “unbecoming” behavior but stopped short of expressing regret for their association. While claiming that their friendship was not as close as perceived, Prince Andrew later issued a statement expressing regret for his “ill-judged association” with Epstein.
Another controversial part of the interview focused on allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew when she was 17. The Duke vehemently denied these allegations, stating that he had no recollection of ever meeting her. He also suggested that his medical condition, which prevented him from sweating, contradicted the accusations made against him.
The interview also delved into the infamous photograph of Prince Andrew with Giuffre and Maxwell, which the Duke claimed not to recall being taken. He dismissed the photo as inconclusive due to his typical attire when out in public. Additionally, Prince Andrew disputed claims of his presence at a nightclub with Giuffre, stating he was instead at a Pizza Express restaurant in Woking with his daughter.
Despite the numerous controversies surrounding the interview, Prince Andrew’s attempts to explain his actions and relationships with Epstein and Maxwell fell short of convincing the public. The fallout from the interview ultimately led to the Duke’s retreat from royal duties and his tarnished reputation. The release of the Netflix drama Scoop sheds new light on the events leading up to and following the interview, providing insight into one of the most pivotal moments in Prince Andrew’s life.
