Prince Andrew's 'Megxit': Scandal-Ridden Duke Could Follow Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Path Out of U.K.

Taking a page out of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's "playbook," Prince Andrew is reportedly contemplating a departure from the United Kingdom amid escalating controversies and strained royal relations.

A close associate of the Duke of York revealed, "Andrew is considering a move abroad to escape the relentless scrutiny he faces in Britain."

The latest scandal involves Andrew's alleged association with a suspected Chinese spy, leading to his withdrawal from the royal family's traditional Christmas celebrations at Sandringham. Instead, he and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will remain at their shared residence, Royal Lodge, on the Windsor estate.

Evidence presented during the tribunal revealed that H6's mobile phone contained documents indicating his influence over the prince.

One such document was a letter authorizing H6 to act on the prince's behalf in seeking Chinese investors for the "Eurasia Fund." This level of access has raised significant concerns about potential breaches of national security.

The relationship between Andrew and H6 has drawn intense scrutiny. Reports suggest the spy was not only a business adviser but also a close confidant, attending private events and wielding considerable influence within the royal circle in a similar fashion to how Epstein "roped in Andrew."

This development mirrors the 2020 decision of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who relocated to the United States to seek financial independence and privacy.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams observed, "The parallels between Andrew's situation and the Sussexes' departure are striking, though motivated by different circumstances."

The "portly" Duke's potential relocation raises questions about his future role within the royal family. Having stepped back from public duties in 2019 following a controversial interview regarding his association with Epstein, the prince has since maintained a low profile.

Royal expert Phil Dampier noted, "A move abroad could offer Andrew a fresh start, away from the British media's relentless gaze."

However, such a move may not be straightforward. Public sentiment remains largely unforgiving, and any attempt by Andrew to rehabilitate his image would require careful navigation.

Royal biographer Angela Levin commented, "The Duke's reputation has suffered immensely; relocating might provide respite but won't erase past controversies."

The royal family's internal dynamics are also at play. King Charles III, striving to modernize the monarchy, faces the challenge of managing familial scandals while maintaining public support. The King's response to his brother's potential move will be closely scrutinized with royal historian Robert Lacey remarked, "Charles's handling of Andrew's situation will set a precedent for how the monarchy deals with internal dissent and scandal."

As the eighth in line to the throne contemplates his next steps, the shadow of Team Sussex's departure looms large. Their move across the Atlantic was met with both criticism and sympathy, and its long-term impact on the royal family continues to unfold. Whether Andrew's potential relocation would elicit a similar response remains to be seen.

GBN reported on the expert comments.