Prince William has come under renewed criticism online after reports claimed that one of the donors linked to his Earthshot Prize initiative was named in documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein.
Supporters of Harry and Meghan Markle were quick to seize on the report, arguing that William is not held to the same level of scrutiny as other members of the royal family. It is important to note that being named in the Epstein files is not evidence of criminal activity.
The backlash follows recent comments from Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who expressed sympathy for Epstein’s victims. Speaking through a spokesperson, the couple said they were “deeply concerned” by the continuing revelations and that their thoughts remained with those affected.
That statement, issued by Kensington Palace, came just days before the new criticism began circulating online.
Those defending Harry and Meghan Markle argue that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are frequently targeted by royal watchers whenever they make public appearances or launch new projects, while similar scrutiny is not always applied elsewhere. In their view, the mention of an Earthshot-related donor in the Epstein documents highlights what they see as a double standard.
Prince William’s Earthshot Prize, which focuses on environmental innovation, has attracted global attention and backing since its launch. However, the latest claims have briefly shifted attention away from its aims and back onto wider royal controversies.
The issue also revives memories of the fallout involving William’s uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who lost his royal titles and was forced to step back from public life following his own links to Epstein.
While there is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Prince William, the episode underlines how sensitive the Epstein revelations remain and how quickly any indirect connection can reignite debate around the royal family.
