New claims from a royal author are shedding light on the circumstances surrounding ex-Prince Andrew stepping back from public duties. While his withdrawal has long been linked to a large-scale scandal, a new account suggests the final decision may have come from a surprising turning point. The report points to an unexpected moment in mainstream media that allegedly shifted royal thinking. Per the author, this incident may have made the situation impossible for the monarchy to ignore.
Late Queen removed son from public life after he featured as a question on TV show, per author
In his book, “Elizabeth II,” royal writer Robert Hardman claims that Queen Elizabeth II made the decisive call after her son became the subject of a question during a televised political debate. The moment, which aired on ITV during a general election event, reportedly signaled that the situation had reached a tipping point.
According to the author, this development made the situation impossible to ignore (via Express U.K.). He alleges that once Andrew’s name entered a national political discussion, the Queen “knew she had no option” but to act. The claim suggests that public perception had shifted to a degree that continuing royal duties was no longer viable.
The book also claims that the decision was made in coordination with King Charles III, who was then Prince of Wales. Together, they reportedly concluded that Andrew’s presence in public-facing roles had become a distraction. “Public duties only work when the public wants to see someone,” the author quotes, suggesting that this support had faded.
The televised debate moment followed a period of mounting scrutiny. Andrew had already faced backlash after a high-profile interview with the BBC, which drew significant criticism and intensified public debate. The author further claims that he had broken an unwritten royal rule by drawing attention during an election period, something the monarchy traditionally avoids.
Separately, the book references earlier concerns about Andrew’s official roles. According to claims attributed to former Prime Minister David Cameron, there were discussions about scaling back his responsibilities. Cameron allegedly noted that some public remarks had become “embarrassing” and added to the challenges surrounding Andrew’s trade envoy position.
