King Charles III is facing renewed criticism as fresh scrutiny surrounding Prince Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein continues to fuel controversy around the royal family.
The latest claims come from author and historian Andrew Lownie, who has long investigated the former Duke of York. Lownie’s book, Entitled – The Rise and Fall of the House of Windsor, is being reissued in paperback, and the author has once again raised serious questions about how the royal family handled Andrew’s scandals.
Lownie is scheduled to appear at the Magheramorne Literary Festival in County Antrim on March 21, where he is expected to discuss his research and the wider implications of the Epstein controversy.
In a recent interview ahead of the event, Lownie argued that Andrew consistently placed personal interests above royal duties and claimed the royal establishment had repeatedly shielded him from consequences.
According to Lownie, the late Queen Elizabeth II played a role in protecting her son throughout the years as allegations mounted against him. The author said he was particularly surprised to learn how extensively the palace had attempted to contain the fallout from Andrew’s actions.
“I was stunned to learn that the late Queen had protected Andrew, placing family interests above the monarchy’s,” Lownie said.
Prince Andrew’s association with Epstein became one of the most damaging scandals to hit the modern monarchy. The prince stepped back from public duties after his friendship with the convicted sex offender drew intense scrutiny, especially following Epstein’s death in 2019.
Andrew ultimately reached a financial settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse when she was a minor. The prince denied the allegations but chose to settle the civil lawsuit out of court. Reports indicated that financial support for the settlement came in part from Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles.
Lownie believes the situation goes beyond the actions of a single individual. In his view, the controversy reflects broader problems within the royal institution itself.
“This scandal transcends one man’s folly,” he said, suggesting that powerful institutions can use legal pressure to discourage critics and silence opposition.
The author went further, comparing the palace’s defensive approach to that of an organized system designed to intimidate challengers and suppress damaging information.
“It’s more reminiscent of a mafia operation than a royal household,” Lownie claimed.
He also noted that some individuals who were allegedly mistreated by Andrew were reluctant to speak publicly, fearing backlash or legal repercussions.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Andrew continues to live under royal protection. Recent reports suggest he has given up leases on several royal properties and is currently staying in temporary accommodation while renovations are completed on a residence that will house him for the rest of his life.
According to reports, the renovations are being privately funded by King Charles.
