Prince Andrew Under Pressure to Step Away Ahead of Royal Christmas Lunch

Prince Andrew finds himself under intense pressure to make a critical decision ahead of the upcoming Sandringham gathering, with insiders claiming the Duke of York is being urged to “step away” to avoid further embarrassment for the royal family.

Cancer-stricken King Charles, who has endured a tumultuous year, is said to be in no mood to handle another uncomfortable confrontation with his disgraced brother, particularly after the ongoing Royal Lodge dispute. The King, already facing personal health battles, is looking for a stress-free holiday period with his family, but Prince Andrew’s presence threatens to derail those plans.

The Sun reported that a Buckingham Palace lunch, set for Thursday, is expected to host more than 50 members of the extended Royal Family, and sources claim that Andrew is under immense pressure to “step aside” voluntarily. Insiders fear the gathering could turn awkward if Andrew attends, forcing King Charles into an unwelcome position.

“There would inevitably have to be some very awkward conversations, and the King would not relish making his brother squirm,” an insider revealed to The Sun. The source didn’t hold back, adding, “Andrew has managed the unthinkable and made a complete t*t of himself even before the Christmas party.”

Courtiers are reportedly pleading with the Duke of York to avoid causing further controversy, emphasizing that his behavior risks overshadowing what should be a period of unity and celebration for the royals. One source explained, “It’s been a hell of a year for The Firm, and the last thing they want is this scandal dragging on during a period of celebration.”

The insider described Andrew as having been “foolish” in his handling of recent controversies. They stressed that the more he “keeps his head down,” the faster the royal family can move on from the shame and public scrutiny that continues to follow him.

However, despite the mounting pressure, sources suggest King Charles is hesitant to officially ban his brother from family events, as such a move would only invite more media attention and worsen the situation. Instead, the monarch is reportedly relying on courtiers to find a diplomatic solution. Advisors are said to be working behind the scenes, carefully “advising” the King on how to handle the delicate matter.

The situation comes at a particularly sensitive time for the Royal Family, as King Charles is grappling with his own health challenges and attempting to steady the monarchy following a difficult year. With celebrations fast approaching, the last thing the family wants is for Andrew to be the center of another scandal.

Insiders believe that the Duke’s best course of action would be to step back gracefully to avoid further embarrassment for both himself and the monarchy. While Charles remains reluctant to take decisive action, the message from courtiers is clear: Andrew must not risk ruining the holiday for everyone else.

For now, all eyes are on Thursday’s Buckingham Palace lunch and whether Prince Andrew will bow to the pressure or risk yet another public relations nightmare. As one source summarized, “The sooner he steps away, the sooner everyone can move on.”