Royal expert calls his continued position “embarrassing at best”
Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne even after losing his titles, honours and public role, a situation that royal commentator Hilary Fordwich says is difficult for the monarchy to defend.
Speaking to Fox News Digital, Fordwich said Andrew’s continued place in the succession “is embarrassing at best,” noting that his past behaviour has already damaged the family’s reputation. She added that while he now sits behind the Sussex children and has no realistic path to becoming king, his presence on the list still raises uncomfortable questions.
According to Fordwich, removing him outright would open another debate. Any move to take an individual out of the succession could make the monarchy look more like a political operation than a steady hereditary institution, which is a concern for those who value tradition.
King Charles has already taken significant steps, launching a formal process to strip Andrew of his remaining style, titles and honours. Andrew will now use the name Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. His long-standing lease on Royal Lodge has also come to an end after formal notice was issued, and he is expected to relocate to alternative private accommodation.
Once the second son of Queen Elizabeth and born second in line, Andrew now sits eighth despite having been removed from official duties. The BBC recently reported that taking him out of the succession altogether would require an act of Parliament along with approval from the Commonwealth realms where the king is head of state.
Fordwich noted that Parliament has shown little interest in pursuing such legislation, a point that has frustrated the heir to the throne, William, along with other senior members of the family. Any change would also need agreement across the Commonwealth, making the process even more complex.
