The Queen, who was in attendance for her late husband’s remembrance service, was accompanied by her son Prince Andrew. This was his first public appearance since his settled sexual lawsuit against him.
The Duke of York escorted the Queen from Windsor Castle through Westminster Abbey on March 29 before accompanying her down the side entrance.
According to royal experts, this move was the Queen’s way of very clearly stating that “he has a role at family occasions” and that “many people will now accept the Queen’s word and judgment.”
Although there was rumored disquiet amongst the family’s senior members about her decision, she stood her ground and insisted.
“It does make some sense that he accompanies her because he doesn’t have a partner. A settlement has been paid but he’s guilty of nothing in the eyes of the law. She has faith in Andrew. Even if he disappears from public life, he’s been able to pay tribute to his father, who after all, was very proud of his service in the Royal Navy, where he fought in the Falkland Islands conflict.”
The Queen sat beside her eldest son Prince Charles for the rest of the service. Andrew also sat beside his brother and sister-in-law, Prince Edward and Sophie. Despite her recent mobility issues, the Queen stood to sing hymns and pray during the service.
Prince Philip Died In 2021
In 2021, the Queen’s husband passed away at age 99 due to natural causes. He was laid to rest at Windsor Chapel with Prince William, Prince Charles, Duchess Kate, Duchess Camilla, and Prince Harry in attendance.
The royal family wore black outfits and face masks to keep themselves safe amidst the pandemic. Those who came to pay their respects sat in line with the social distancing guidelines. The Queen, however, sat by herself.
Shortly after his death, a source explained to Us Weekly that the funeral would be low-key and not ceremonial due to the covid protocols.
“They do not want his death to have a negative impact on the U.K.’s pandemic protocols,” the insider added. “Only a select few will attend in accordance with the government’s health and safety guidelines.”
Though the entire family was devastated at his passing, they found solace that he was at his wife’s side in his last moments.
“His final days were very peaceful. Spending time with Elizabeth, communicating with other loved ones, reading, and relaxing in his home environment meant everything to Philip.”
Prince Andrew Has Been Away From Public Eye Due To His Lawsuit
This was Prince Andrew’s first public appearance since he settled his sexual misconduct lawsuit with Virginia Guiffre in February. Since November, Prince Andrew had since stepped away from the public glare when Guiffre alleged him of sexually assaulting her when she was a teen.
When the claims were initially made, the Prince vehemently denied them, stating to BBC News at the time that he never had any affiliations with the lady. “I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady, none whatsoever. It just never happened.”
As the lawsuit continued to gain grounds, the palace confirmed that the Prince’s titles would be stripped off him. This was several months after keeping quiet on the debacle.
“With The Queen’s approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and Royal patronages have been returned to The Queen,” a statement read. “The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen.”
Prince Andrew’s Connection With Jeffrey Epstein
In 2019, Jeffrey Epstein was charged in court with one count of sex trafficking and another count of conspiracy to sex trafficking. After pleading innocent to the claims, Epstein was found dead in his jail cell on account of suicide.
Epstein’s associates included bigwigs, politicians, and even royalty. It was reported that Prince Andrew had a connection to him at one point.
Little is known about the friendship between the pair, but in August 2021, Prince Andrew was accused of sexual assault by an alleged Epstein victim, Guiffre.
The Lawsuit Was Eventually Settled Out Of Court
According to a document released on February 15, the sexual assault case was settled out of court for an undisclosed token.
A letter was submitted to the United States District Court detailing both parties’ plans on filling a stipulation to dismiss the case within 30 days.
“Prince Andrew intends to make a substantial donation to Ms. Giuffre’s charity in support of victims’ rights,” the letter read. “Prince Andrew has never intended to malign Ms. Giuffre’s character, and he accepts that she has suffered both as an established victim of abuse and as a result of unfair public attacks.”
The document also acknowledged the Prince’s association with Epstein.
“It is known that Jeffrey Epstein trafficked countless young girls over many years,” the statement continued. “Prince Andrew regrets his association with Epstein, and commends the bravery of Ms. Giuffre and other survivors in standing up for themselves and others. He pledges to demonstrate his regret for his association with Epstein by supporting the fight against the evils of sex trafficking, and by supporting its victims.”
The sex abuse lawsuit was officially closed this month, March 9th, after settlements were paid by the royal, Prince Andrew.
