King Charles banishes Prince Andrew amid Epstein scandal to protect monarchy

King Charles has taken the unprecedented step of stripping his younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, of his royal titles and evicting him from his residence at Royal Lodge due to longstanding controversies surrounding Andrew's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and other damaging behaviors. This move aims to protect the monarchy's reputation amid growing public and political pressure, with widespread approval from British politicians, media, and the public. Andrew is expected to relocate to a property on the Sandringham estate and receive private financial support from the king, though questions about his favorable lease terms and compensation remain under parliamentary scrutiny. Royal expert Jonathan Dimbleby described the decision as necessary to shield the institution from further embarrassment caused by Andrew's "boorish and entitled" conduct. Buckingham Palace emphasized its solidarity with victims of abuse, even as Andrew continues to deny the allegations against him. The banishment marks a significant moment in modern British royal history, reflecting King Charles's resolve to distance the monarchy from scandal and restore its standing.