Prince Andrew, turning 65 today, is facing a very different birthday scenario compared to his expectations five years ago. Once poised for a grand celebration and a prestigious promotion to Admiral in the Royal Navy, his plans have been overshadowed by ongoing scandals and property issues.
Five years ago, Prince Andrew was forced to step back from public duties following his controversial BBC Newsnight interview. His association with Jeffrey Epstein and the subsequent fallout canceled his lavish birthday plans and deferred his naval honor. Now, as he celebrates his 65th, the Duke of York finds himself entangled in new controversies, including links to an alleged Chinese spy, which have further diminished his public role.
Subheading: Royal Lodge in Disrepair
Prince Andrew’s residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor, shared with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, is reportedly in dire need of repair. The 19th-century Grade II listed property is suffering from significant structural issues, with estimates for repairs soaring to £1 million. The once well-maintained home now shows signs of severe decay, including cracks, peeling paint, and mold, a stark contrast to its condition in 2019.
Despite these challenges, biographer Andrew Lownie suggests that Prince Andrew will likely celebrate his birthday with a small gathering at Royal Lodge. Surrounded by a few loyal friends from high society, this celebration will be far more subdued, reflecting his current reduced public and social standing.
Prince Andrew, who before his step back from royal duties was quite active, engaging in 394 official duties in the year leading to the Newsnight interview, now focuses more privately. His public appearances have been limited to family events like the funerals of Queen Elizabeth II and King Constantine of Greece, and King Charles III’s coronation.
The ongoing scandal involving his alleged association with Yang Tengbo, described in court as a “close confidant,” has kept Prince Andrew away from traditional royal Christmas gatherings at Sandringham. These issues, combined with the physical decay of his home, paint a picture of a man whose life has dramatically changed since his last major birthday.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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