Prince William Was “Heavily Involved” in Stripping Prince Andrew of His Royal Titles

The Queen is leaning on Prince William amid Prince Andrew’s sexual assault lawsuit, which recently resulted in Andrew being stripped of his royal titles. Royal expert Kristin Contino tells Us Weekly that “William, in fact, was very involved in this decision, and it’s been said that he met with the Queen in person ahead of their announcement that came out last week. I think that really shows—and I think that’s interesting—his growing influence and how she trusts his judgment and is looking for his advice. And I think that’s a great sign of things to come for William and how much she is relying on talking to him and his counsel.”

Contino also notes that “Charles, of course, was involved in that decision too. But I think [what] a lot of people thought was interesting is William’s heavy involvement in that. So I think she really is leaning on her two heirs at this time [to] help make those sort of big family decisions.”

Andrew was stripped of his titles on January 13, and the palace released a statement saying, “With the Queen’s approval and agreement, the Duke of York’s military affiliations and royal patronages have been returned to the Queen. The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen.”

The decision came a day after Andrew’s request to throw out Virginia Giuffre’s lawsuit was dismissed by a judge. Giuffre has claimed she was forced to have sex with Andrew at the age of 17 by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, allegations Andrew has denied. He could face trial later this year.

You Might Also Like

• A Cleaning Expert Explains the Best Way to Clean Cloth Face Masks After You Wear Them — Good Housekeeping

• 35 Delicious Pantry Recipes That Use What's Already in Your Cabinets and Freezer — Good Housekeeping

• The Amish keep to themselves. And they’re hiding a horrifying secret. — Cosmopolitan