Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein: A Timeline of Controversy

For over two decades, the relationship between Prince Andrew, formerly the Duke of York and the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has been a source of intense scrutiny and scandal for the British royal family. This timeline details the key events and allegations surrounding their association, from its beginnings in 1999 to recent developments.

Early Association and Introductions

Prince Andrew first met Jeffrey Epstein through Ghislaine Maxwell in 1999 . Epstein and Maxwell became frequent guests at royal events, attending parties at Windsor Castle and Sandringham House . Andrew reportedly traveled on Epstein’s private jet in 2000 .

Escalating Scrutiny and Allegations

Following Epstein’s 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution, the association with Prince Andrew drew increased attention. Despite this, Andrew visited Epstein in New York in 2010, a decision he later acknowledged was a mistake .

Serious allegations emerged from Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was trafficked by Epstein and Maxwell and forced to have sexual relations with Andrew on three occasions in the early 2000s, beginning when she was 17 . Andrew has consistently denied these allegations, stating in a 2019 BBC Newsnight interview that he had no recollection of ever meeting Giuffre . This interview was widely criticized for its perceived lack of credibility .

Fall From Royal Duties and Title Changes

The public backlash following the Newsnight interview led to Prince Andrew stepping back from public royal duties in November 2019 . In January 2022, Queen Elizabeth II removed his military affiliations and his use of the style “His Royal Highness” .

Recent Developments

In 2025, the scandal intensified, resulting in Andrew being stripped of his royal titles and asked to vacate Royal Lodge . As of February 2026, investigations continue into his connections to Epstein and Maxwell .

Ghislaine Maxwell, a key figure in the Epstein case, has supported Prince Andrew, referring to Epstein as “a monster” .