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Prince Andrew has managed to hold on to his home for now. King Charles III seems to have backed off from trying to evict him from the Royal Lodge, the £30 million mansion Andrew has lived in for years.
The King had spent over a year trying to remove his brother from the property. But legally, his hands are tied. Back in 2003, Andrew signed a 75-year lease, which means he has the right to stay there as long as he pays rent and maintains the place.
This recent decision to step back has reportedly left Andrew feeling relieved, maybe even a bit cheerful, a rare moment, considering how things have gone for him in recent years.
He’s been on the sidelines of the royal family ever since his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein came out. His reputation took a massive hit after a now-infamous Newsnight interview. Since then, other scandals, like being friends with a suspected Chinese spy, have kept him in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Most royals want little to do with him. Charles, in particular, wanted him out of the Royal Lodge. But for now, Andrew’s lease is the only thing protecting him.
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News that Charles’ backing off doesn’t mean he’s forgiven Andrew or is offering him a second chance. He’s still an outsider, both in the eyes of the public and his family. The only reason he’s staying in the mansion is because of the legal agreement he signed years ago.
But this could all change. Andrew is responsible for the lodge’s upkeep, and it’s no cheap task. Reports say the building has issues, damp, cracks, general wear and tear, and if he can’t afford the repairs, he risks losing the place.
In 2028, the Crown Estate will have a chance to review the lease if there are problems with the maintenance. And when Prince William becomes king one day, he might be even more eager to get Andrew out.
So yes, Andrew has won this round. But he’s far from secure. His future at the Royal Lodge is hanging by a thread.