Prince Andrew has officially renounced his title of Duke of York amid ongoing controversies linked to his connections with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The announcement was made on Friday, marking a significant retreat from public life for the 65-year-old royal, who has faced years of scrutiny over his conduct.

In a statement, Prince Andrew explained that he made this decision after discussions with King Charles III and other family members. He acknowledged that the “continued accusations” against him have become a distraction for the royal family. "I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first," he stated. He also reiterated his denial of the allegations against him.

This move follows a series of scandals that have tarnished Andrew's reputation, including his association with Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. In 2022, Andrew was stripped of his military titles and royal patronages, and he settled a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse when she was a teenager. Andrew has consistently denied these claims.

The fallout from these events has led to a significant decline in public support for Andrew. Recent polls indicate that 67% of Britons favour stripping him of all remaining titles, with only 5% holding a favourable view of him. Although he will no longer use the Duke of York title, Andrew will retain his status as a prince and continue to reside at Royal Lodge near Windsor Castle. However, he will not participate in royal family gatherings this Christmas.

His daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, remain unaffected by this decision, but his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will no longer be referred to as the Duchess of York. This renunciation of title reflects a broader effort by King Charles to reshape the monarchy and distance it from controversy.