In a twist that seems straight out of a royal soap opera, Prince Andrew is refusing to vacate his lavish royal residence in favor of the much smaller Frogmore Cottage.
This decision comes amid ongoing scrutiny and scandal surrounding his past associations, particularly with the late Jeffrey Epstein.
Since 2004, Andrew has called the opulent $38 million Royal Lodge, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle, his home, thanks to a 75-year lease.
However, following the revelations about his ties to Epstein in 2019, many have speculated that his days in this luxurious abode are numbered.
With King Charles seemingly intent on distancing the monarchy from Andrew’s controversies, the pressure is mounting.
Despite the turmoil, sources indicate that Andrew has no immediate plans to leave his plush quarters.
Christopher Anderson, a royal expert and author of “The King,” shared insights with Fox News, noting that King Charles, who is currently battling cancer, likely has bigger issues on his plate than confronting his brother.
It seems that the family dynamics are complicated, to say the least.
Anderson further mentioned that if Andrew does eventually move out, it might be due to financial constraints rather than royal decree.
He pointed out that the upkeep of the Royal Lodge isn’t cheap; it costs around $503,000 annually to maintain the Grade II-listed property.
With no apparent income, Andrew’s financial struggles might soon dictate his living arrangements.
Meanwhile, Frogmore Cottage remains conspicuously vacant.
After Prince Harry and Meghan Markle relinquished the keys in June 2023, the five-bedroom property has been left unoccupied.
It’s a curious situation, especially given that this charming residence was once a wedding gift from Queen Elizabeth II to the Sussexes.
Now, it stands as a stark reminder of the couple’s controversial exit from royal life.
The prospect of Andrew moving into Frogmore Cottage has been floated, but he reportedly turned down the offer.
Sharing a 31-room mansion with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, he seems to prefer the grandeur of the Royal Lodge, despite the mounting costs and controversies.
The discussion around Andrew’s living situation isn’t just about personal preference; it reflects the broader challenges facing the royal family.
As they navigate public opinion and familial obligations, Andrew’s presence in such a high-profile residence raises eyebrows.