Prince Andrew's reappearance at a royal Easter service in Windsor has reignited debate within royal circles over his potential return to public duties, as King Charles III signaled openness to reintroducing his younger brother into the official fold. The move, viewed by some royal observers as a symbolic step toward rehabilitation, comes amid ongoing family tensions and lingering reputational damage from Andrew's past associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Andrew, 65, joined King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other members of the Royal Family at St. George's Chapel on Sunday. Walking beside his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson and accompanied by Princess Anne and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, the Duke of York was seen interacting with the King and Queen prior to the service. His presence marked his first public appearance with senior royals in over a year.
Royal expert Phil Dampier said the outing represented "a show of family unity," adding, "He's not totally out in the cold, but I think it's too early to say it's any kind of comeback for him." Dampier believes Andrew remains eager to resume a formal royal role and speculated that recent developments in the legal saga involving Virginia Giuffre may have bolstered his confidence. Giuffre previously accused Andrew of sexual abuse-allegations he has consistently denied-but reached a financial settlement with him in 2022.
Andrew's return was notably absent of Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who took their children to church services in Sandringham, 190 kilometers away. Dampier noted that William remains firmly opposed to any official return for his uncle. "It is absolutely true to say that William is one of the driving forces behind making sure there's no future for the Duke of York," Dampier said. "There is, I'm told, quite a lot of friction between them."
Andrew arrived at the chapel in a car with Sarah Ferguson and exited without addressing onlookers. Observers at the event noted his reserved demeanor, in contrast to Ferguson, who smiled at spectators. "It was really interesting to see Fergie walk in with the Duke of York. That is quite a bold statement," said Claire Myers-Lamptey, who attended the service with her son.
Other senior royals, including Prince Edward, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and their son James, Earl of Wessex, attended on foot. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, along with their husbands, were also present. Princess Eugenie, who gave birth prematurely in January, made a rare appearance.
The King, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, wished crowds "a very happy Easter" as he departed the service. Queen Camilla thanked a young girl for a floral posy. The Duke of York, once stripped of his military titles and royal patronages, did not respond to greetings from the crowd.
