EXCLUSIVE: How Prince William 'Pulled Rank' Over Shamed Prince Andrew at Duchess of Kent's Funeral 'In Disgust at Uncle's Jeffrey Epstein Scandal'

Article continues below advertisement

The atmosphere was notably tense as Prince William seemed to actively avoid interaction with Prince Andrew during the recent funeral service for the Duchess of Kent. While the coffin was being carried to the hearse, it was observed that Andrew attempted to initiate a conversation with William, who instead chose to respond with silence and maintained a direct gaze ahead.

A source close to the royal family remarked, “William’s response made it evident that he had no intention of engaging, clearly indicating that he refused to support Andrew in giving the impression that everything was normal.” The source added, “With the ongoing ramifications of the Epstein scandal still looming, William views his uncle as a liability. This was a bold assertion of his authority — a clear message that Andrew is not to be considered a vital part of the royal family.”

Article continues below advertisement

Royal commentator Jennie Bond, a former BBC correspondent, noted that the encounter highlighted the severity of the ongoing rift within the family. She stated, “William perceives his uncle as an embarrassment to the monarchy, and this moment illustrated his firm stance. When he is resolute on a matter, he does not waiver. This is not necessarily a flaw; it would be disingenuous of him to pretend that relations are harmonious when there is evident tension.” Bond emphasized that William appeared visibly uncomfortable as Andrew attempted to converse, describing it as an “exceedingly awkward moment” during what was meant to be a solemn event.

Bond remarked that the body language displayed during the funeral spoke volumes about the dynamics of their relationship, stating that “William clearly holds the higher position in this exchange — a future king who outranks his uncle.” She further criticized Andrew for exhibiting a lack of awareness regarding how negatively he is perceived, asserting that it was inappropriate of him to seek lighthearted conversation during such a serious occasion.

Article continues below advertisement

While King Charles and his siblings seem willing to tolerate Andrew, Prince William embodies a new generation’s perspective with differing attitudes and standards. At 65 years old, the Duke of York’s presence at the funeral alongside his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, elicited audible reactions from the public who viewed this attendance as controversial.

This situation comes amid ongoing scrutiny regarding Andrew and Ferguson’s past relationships with the incarcerated Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on serious charges. Andrew’s insistence on attending such events, wherein he appears unaware of public discontent, indicates a significant disconnect.