The recent release of additional documents and photographs by the US Department of Justice related to Jeffrey Epstein has once again thrust Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor—formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York—back into the spotlight, intensifying scrutiny over his long-standing association with the convicted sex offender.
On January 30, 2026, the DOJ released a massive trove of files—over three million pages—as part of ongoing transparency efforts under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Among them are several undated photographs that appear to depict Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in compromising positions. In these images, he is shown on all fours, kneeling or crouching over an unidentified woman lying on the floor. The woman is fully clothed, with her face redacted by authorities to protect potential victims’ identities. In at least one photo, he appears to touch her stomach or waist area while looking toward the camera.
These visuals, sourced directly from Epstein-related materials, lack clear context, date, or location details. Reports from outlets like BBC, CNN, Reuters, and The Washington Post describe them as “puzzling” or “embarrassing,” noting they add significant pressure to a figure already stripped of royal titles and patronages.
This development comes amid broader revelations in the files, including emails suggesting continued contact between Epstein and figures connected to Andrew after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. For instance, correspondence from an account labeled “The Duke” proposed a private dinner at Buckingham Palace shortly after Epstein’s release from house arrest in 2010. Other elements include Epstein offering introductions to individuals, though Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
The timing could hardly be worse for the British royal family. Just one day after the files’ release, on January 31, 2026, the official royal Instagram account posted a celebratory video marking the 50th anniversary of the King’s Trust (formerly the Prince’s Trust). The initiative, praised for supporting over 1.3 million young people in building skills and futures, featured messages from celebrities and ambassadors emphasizing hope and progress. Instead, media coverage was dominated by the Epstein revelations, creating a stark contrast between the monarchy’s efforts to project positivity and the persistent shadow of past scandals.
King Charles III has reportedly been frustrated by the recurring fallout from his brother’s associations, having previously overseen the removal of Andrew’s military affiliations, royal patronages, and use of his princely style in late 2025. This was intended to safeguard the institution’s reputation. However, the new files demonstrate that distancing measures alone do not erase public or legal interest in the matter.
Public and media reactions have been sharp. Journalist Piers Morgan, among others, has highlighted inconsistencies in accounts from various high-profile individuals linked to Epstein, questioning what else might have been concealed. Victims’ advocates, including attorney Gloria Allred, have called for Andrew to testify before US lawmakers to provide clarity on Epstein’s network—though such cooperation appears unlikely given diplomatic and jurisdictional complexities.
Additionally, the files reference Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson (Duchess of York), renewing attention to her past communications with Epstein. These reportedly involved business discussions, including her “Mother’s Army” project and branding efforts, which her representatives previously framed as defensive responses to threats rather than enthusiastic collaboration.
While the photographs are striking, they do not include explicit content or direct evidence of criminal activity by Andrew. Both he and the woman in the images are clothed, and no new allegations of misconduct have been substantiated by this release alone. Nonetheless, they challenge narratives Andrew has maintained since his 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where he denied certain encounters and claimed limited contact post-Epstein’s conviction.
For the monarchy, this episode underscores ongoing challenges in balancing legacy, accountability, and public trust. King Charles continues to prioritize forward-looking initiatives like the King’s Trust, but repeated Epstein-related disclosures risk overshadowing those achievements.
As investigations and public discourse evolve, the royal family faces renewed calls for transparency. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further commentary from Buckingham Palace or legal developments. What are your thoughts on these latest revelations?