Prince Andrew has been seen out horse riding in Windsor, showing a defiant demeanor as a controversial dramatization of his BBC Newsnight interview airs on Netflix. The Duke of York appeared carefree while riding in Windsor as the Netflix show, Scoop, delves into the BBC team securing the interview. The show is based on the memoir by former Newsnight producer Sam McAlister and highlights the high-stakes negotiations leading up to the Duke of York’s interview. This interview, which aired in November 2019, caused significant backlash as Andrew failed to express regret for his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Following the negative fallout from the Newsnight interview, Prince Andrew made the decision to step back from public life “for the foreseeable future.” He expressed regret for his association with Epstein and vowed to cooperate with any necessary investigations. Subsequently, he missed out on an honorary Navy promotion and was not awarded a rank of Admiral on his 60th birthday as expected. Andrew now only makes brief appearances at what are deemed family events, such as royal funerals and ceremonies. Despite these low-profile appearances, Andrew has avoided significant royal milestones, including his daughter Princess Beatrice’s wedding, where he was notably absent from official photos.
Prince Andrew currently resides at his 30-room Windsor home, Royal Lodge, which he shares with his former wife Sarah Ferguson. Although there were plans for him to move to Frogmore Cottage as part of the monarchy’s downsizing, he was allowed to continue living at Royal Lodge after negotiating with the King. While there have been reports of Andrew wishing for a return to public life, it seems unlikely. However, one royal author suggests that the royal family, specifically King Charles, may keep Andrew within the fold due to family ties and reasons relating to potential damage caused if he were to be alienated.
Despite his reduced public presence and controversies, Prince Andrew remains active in his personal life, often seen enjoying horse rides near his residence. It is clear that the repercussions of the Newsnight interview and the revelations about his associations have significantly transformed Andrew’s royal status and public image. As his legal situation remains unresolved and public sentiment remains negative, it seems unlikely that Prince Andrew will return to a prominent role within the royal family. However, his continued presence at family events suggests that he maintains some connection to the royal circle, albeit in a greatly diminished capacity.
