Signs of Strain at the Funeral

The tension between William and Andrew was also visible at the Duchess of Kent’s funeral. Standing on the steps of Westminster Cathedral, Andrew appeared to try and engage William in conversation, but the Prince of Wales showed little interest.

Royal commentator Jennie Bond told The Mirror that the moment revealed much about their relationship. “William finds his uncle an embarrassment to the monarchy,” she said. “I think the body language proved that William is the top dog in this relationship: a future king who outranks his uncle. Andrew has demonstrated time and again that he is bizarrely oblivious to how toxic he now is.”

She added that trying to joke around with William during such a solemn occasion was “crass,” especially under the glare of cameras.

Reports suggest William is pressing his father to act more decisively. While Charles is said to want to maintain ties with his brother and former sister-in-law — a stance previously taken by the late Queen Elizabeth II — palace insiders speculate that Andrew and Fergie could soon be barred from major public events such as the royal family’s annual Christmas Day walkabout.

There is also speculation that Charles may finally evict the pair from Royal Lodge in Windsor, a move William is said to be demanding “as a minimum.”

Kensington Palace has not commented on the reports.