Duke of York enjoys renewed royal privilege as King Charles grants quiet nod following Epstein case closure
Prince Andrew is marking the end of a long period of scrutiny with a quiet but symbolic return to royal tradition — hosting a private shooting event at Windsor with King Charles' approval, following the conclusion of the FBI investigation into his ties with Jeffrey Epstein.
Once engulfed in scandal, the Duke of York has expressed “relief” after U.S. authorities officially closed their investigation, declaring there was “no evidence” to support allegations of a so-called Epstein “client list” involving Andrew or other high-profile figures. The verdict has given the embattled royal room to breathe — and reassert his presence in elite social circles.
Though still excluded from public royal duties and formal events by his brother, King Charles has reportedly allowed Andrew to maintain one key royal privilege: hosting an exclusive “family day” at the Windsor shoot. The gathering, steeped in aristocratic tradition, is seen as an important social event where invitations carry weight and reciprocation is expected.
Despite his fall from royal grace, Andrew continues to be welcomed by many in Britain’s upper class, particularly within the shooting community. A source described him as a “prized guest,” noting that some remain eager to associate with his title and status — even if public sentiment remains sharply divided.
The private event marks Andrew’s most public-facing moment in recent years, even as it remains outside official royal life. With the Epstein cloud now legally behind him, the Duke appears poised to reclaim a degree of social standing — a move that may reignite debate over royal accountability and the boundaries of redemption within the monarchy.
