Prince Andrew sparked an outcry earlier today, February 27, when he was pictured walking with the Royal Family as they attended a memorial service for King Constantine II of Greece, who passed away in January 2023.
The service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor was attended by several royals from the UK and Europe, which led many to question why the disgraced Duke of York was so publicly present.
Following his interview with Emily Maitlis on Newsnight in November 2019 Andrew was forced to step down as a working royal, as he was questioned over his links to Jeffrey Epstein and an alleged sexual assault claim brought against him by Virginia Giuffre.
The case was settled out of court and Prince Andrew has always vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
This means that Andrew no longer carries out any royal duties on behalf of the Firm and is generally no longer seen on the Buckingham Palace balcony at events such as Trooping the Colour.
Yet Andrew is still the King’s brother and as such is permitted to attend private family events, as it is understood the Greek Royal Family invited him to attend the memorial.
This also explains why he wa seen during the annual Christmas Day walk to St Mary Magdalene Church at Sandringham, as he is still invited to spend the festive season with his family.
The next occasion we can expect to see Andrew at is the Easter Sunday service at Windsor, as these events fall outside the remit of official royal duties.
Royal fans have expressed their outrage at Andrew being front and centre on social media, with one person writing on X: “‘Prince Andrew leads…’ should not be anywhere next to ‘Royal Family’. I’m sorry but this is terrible optics all around.”
Another added: “They’re pushing Andrew back in, and William isn’t having it because he knows this will be damaging to him and George. I’m not saying this is the reason William isn’t there.”
A third pointed out: “Royal Family are clueless…As if Foreign media / any viewers can distinguish between personal / official event. Optics are awful, hope all ok with Wales family.”
Neither King Charles nor Princess Kate were unable to attend the service due to ill health, but it is hoped that Kate may be well enough to be out and about again at Easter.
Prince William had been due to give a reading at the service but pulled out at the last minute due to personal reasons.
It seems that his reasons were fortunately not related to his wife, as Kensington Palace confirmed she is continuing to do well in her recovery.
