Recent photos released by the Department of Justice show Prince Andrew, formerly Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, in the company of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at some of the British monarchy’s most private estates.
Sandringham has long been a traditional family retreat for Christmas and New Year celebrations, a practice established by the late Queen Elizabeth in 1988. Another photo shows Andrew, Epstein, and Maxwell hunting together at Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands.
Chard explained that Epstein used Andrew’s social circle to gain credibility and status while Andrew, enticed by promises of sex, money, and friendship, believed Epstein was a genuine friend.
“What stands out is not just the photos themselves, but the context,” said Matta, another royal expert. “Sandringham is one of the family’s most private hideaways, and Ascot is one of its most public stages. Allowing them access to both shows just how close Andrew let them get to the monarchy,” Matta added.
Matta also referenced former Vanity Fair editor Tina Brown’s 2022 book, where Epstein allegedly called Andrew “a useful idiot.” She said this description fits perfectly. Epstein and Maxwell didn’t need Andrew to act deliberately; his royal title alone gave them legitimacy and status.
“The images are devastating for the monarchy,” Matta noted. “For an institution that relies on dignity and distance from scandal, seeing Epstein and Maxwell move freely near royal spaces is damaging. Andrew’s public role may be over, but the monarchy still bears the consequences of his associations.”
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich also commented that the Sandringham photo shows Andrew “flaunting his former royal privileges,” underlining the broader impact of his connections.
These revelations highlight ongoing concerns about the influence of Epstein and Maxwell within royal-adjacent circles and the potential reputational harm to the British monarchy.
