Key Highlights
- Shocking Allegation: A new report claims Prince William threatened to have the royal titles of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie reviewed.
- The Ultimatum: The alleged threat was designed to pressure the princesses into convincing their father, Prince Andrew, to vacate his long-time home, Royal Lodge.
- Palace Pushback: Sources close to the situation deny any such meeting took place, clarifying that Prince William does not have the authority to remove royal titles.
- Ongoing Turmoil: The incident underscores the mounting pressure on Prince Andrew and the firm stance the future King, Prince William, is expected to take regarding his uncle’s role in the monarchy.
A Royal Standoff Over Royal Lodge
In a dramatic new turn for the Royal Family, journalist Emily Maitlis has reported that Prince William may have issued a stark ultimatum to his cousins, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Speaking on her podcast, The News Agents, Maitlis detailed speculation that William demanded his cousins pressure their father, Prince Andrew, to finally leave Royal Lodge amid renewed scrutiny over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
The alleged warning was severe: cooperate, or the status of their own titles as princesses could be re-examined. “There was a bit of pressure, we understand, being put on the princesses to say, ‘You know, this is going to happen,’ ” Maitlis stated, suggesting the move was intended to force Andrew’s hand for the sake of his daughters.
Palace Denies Explosive Claims
Despite the explosive nature of the report, PEOPLE understands that no such meeting between Prince William and his cousins ever occurred. Furthermore, the claim that William could strip Beatrice and Eugenie of their titles is constitutionally inaccurate. As heir to the throne, his influence is significant, but removing their titles would require a formal Act of Parliament, a power he does not possess.
The controversy highlights the intense and ongoing efforts to manage the fallout from Prince Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew recently surrendered his Duke of York title and honors, but the issue of his residence at the grand Royal Lodge mansion, which he shares with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, remains a point of contention.
A Canceled Royal Confrontation
Maitlis, the journalist who conducted the infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew, also claimed that a plan for King Charles to confront his brother was abruptly canceled. The King was reportedly scheduled to visit Royal Lodge to “read the riot act” to Andrew. However, when the palace noticed a heavy media presence, including helicopters, they feared the situation had “got out of control” and called off the visit.
William’s Firm Stance on the Future
This alleged incident aligns with other reports, including one from The Sunday Times, suggesting Prince William intends to adopt a much stricter approach toward his uncle’s involvement with the Royal Family when he ascends the throne. It is believed William will ban Andrew from all public and private royal events, including his own future coronation, to protect the integrity of the monarchy.
While the ultimatum may be disputed, the underlying tension is undeniable. The Royal Family is navigating a difficult path, balancing family ties with the Crown’s public image, and Prince William appears ready to make decisive choices to safeguard its future.