Prince William and Kate Middleton could be facing what insiders are calling a “dreaded chapter” in the long-running scandal surrounding Prince Andrew.
According to a new report, the Prince and Princess of Wales “have drawn up what aides privately call the final line” when it comes to the Duke of York’s future in royal life.
Later this year, William, Kate, and their three children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis — are set to move into their new home, Forest Lodge, just a short drive from Andrew’s residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor.
The ‘Dreaded Chapter’
Sources claim that while the family’s move symbolizes a fresh start, it also brings renewed proximity to a relative they reportedly want to keep at arm’s length. Speaking to Closer, an insider alleged that the Prince and Princess “want Andrew permanently off the stage.”
“This is the chapter William and Kate have dreaded,” the source said. “They want Andrew permanently off the stage.”
The Duke of York, 65, has spent recent years mired in scandal, mainly over his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He stepped back from public duties in 2019 after his friendship with Epstein and allegations of sexual assault against him made global headlines.
Virginia Giuffre accused Epstein of forcing her to have sex with Andrew on three occasions when she was 17 in the early 2000s — claims the Duke has always denied, insisting he does not recall ever meeting her.
In February 2022, Andrew and Giuffre — who tragically took her own life earlier this year — reached an out-of-court settlement in her U.S. civil case against him. A month before that, he had been stripped of his military titles and royal patronages.
‘No Role, No Funding, No Future Appearances’
Since then, Andrew has largely stayed out of the public eye, spending most of his time at Royal Lodge. His rare recent appearance was at the Duchess of Kent’s funeral, where he was seen briefly speaking with his nephew, Prince William.
Now, according to Closer, the Waleses have decided to take an even firmer stance. “Together, William and Kate are said to have drawn up what aides privately call the final line: no royal role, no funding, and no future public appearances for Andrew,” the insider said. “It’s the firmest position yet — one that could finally banish the Yorks from the royal inner circle for good.”
The timing of the renewed scrutiny is especially sensitive, with Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl set for release next week.
A Strained Relationship
While neither prince has spoken publicly about their relationship, it’s long been reported that William and Andrew are not close. Sources suggest the controversies surrounding the Duke have deeply strained family ties.
One royal commentator even remarked that Andrew should “fear the day” Prince William becomes king — a day that could redefine the royal family’s boundaries once and for all.