Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, announced on Friday that he will no longer use his title of Duke of York. This decision comes amid renewed scrutiny of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and new allegations from Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault when she was a minor. In a statement released through Buckingham Palace, Andrew said, "The continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family." He added that, with the King’s agreement, he has decided to relinquish his title and associated honors.

While Andrew will stop using his peerage and honors, including the Order of the Garter and the Royal Victorian Order, he retains the title of "Prince" by birthright as the son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Revoking his dukedom would require an Act of Parliament, meaning it remains legally his, even though he will no longer be styled as "His Royal Highness" or addressed publicly as Duke of York.

This announcement follows a lengthy public reckoning for the 65-year-old royal, who stepped back from official duties in 2019 amid growing controversy. In 2022, he settled Giuffre’s civil lawsuit for a reported £12 million without admitting any wrongdoing. The scandal surrounding Andrew has been one of the most damaging in recent British royal history, particularly as it relates to his association with Epstein, who was convicted of sex trafficking.

Giuffre's family welcomed Andrew's decision, stating, "Prince Andrew’s decision to give up his titles is vindication for our sister and survivors everywhere." Giuffre had alleged that Epstein trafficked her to powerful individuals, including Andrew. She filed a lawsuit against him in 2021, claiming he sexually abused her when she was 17. Andrew has consistently denied these allegations.

The announcement came shortly after reports surfaced about an email allegedly sent by Andrew to Epstein in 2011, which suggested a continued association between the two. This email reportedly contradicted Andrew's previous claims about ceasing communication with Epstein after a visit in 2010. Royal commentator Daisy McAndrew stated, "That was the real last nail in the coffin for Andrew because it makes him look, in black and white, like a liar."

As a result of his decision, Andrew will not be welcome at royal events and will need to maintain a lower profile. He stated, "As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me." Despite stepping back from royal duties, Andrew will continue to reside at his Royal Lodge near Windsor Castle, as he has a tenancy agreement in place until 2078. He remains eighth in line to the throne and retains his title as Prince Andrew, but he will no longer hold any royal patronages or official duties.