The mounting controversy surrounding Prince Andrew’s past association with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has led to the prince relinquishing his royal titles earlier this week.

Now, an insider claims King Charles issued a stark warning to his brother just hours beforehand, leaving Andrew reportedly “shocked.”

Years of Allegations and Mounting Pressure

Prince Andrew has been embroiled in controversy for years over his alleged ties to Epstein. New claims continue to surface, intensifying scrutiny on the disgraced royal. In response to increasing public and institutional pressure, Andrew released a statement on Friday announcing his decision to step back further from royal life by giving up his titles.

In the statement, Andrew described the allegations against him as a serious “distraction” from the Royal Family’s duties, while maintaining his denial of all wrongdoing.

Andrew’s Official Statement

“In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family. I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life,” Andrew said.

“With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me.”