2025 has brought a relentless series of setbacks for Andrew, formerly a royal prince. Stripped of his titles earlier in the year following renewed scrutiny of his association with Jeffrey Epstein, he recently suffered another blow – a demotion from Vice-Admiral to the rank of Commander. Now, long-held criticisms from a surprising source are resurfacing, offering a stark assessment of his character.
His marriage to Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, captivated the world when they wed at Westminster Abbey in 1986. The televised ceremony was a spectacle of royal grandeur. However, a new book reveals the deeply private reservations held by Fergie’s mother, Susan Barrantes, about the prince.
Andrew Lownie’s book, “Entitled: The Rise and Fall Of The House of York,” draws upon intimate accounts from those close to the couple. Susan Barrantes, who tragically died in a car accident in 1998, didn’t hesitate to express her concerns, suggesting the marriage might have endured if Andrew possessed a stronger sense of self.
In a candid interview with an Italian magazine, Barrantes described Andrew as generous to a fault, willing to sacrifice his own resources to help others. Yet, she delivered a damning indictment: “He just hasn’t got any character – absolutely none.” She believed this fundamental lack of strength contributed to the eventual breakdown of their union, which ended in separation in 1992 and divorce in 1996.
Following the split, Sarah Ferguson’s public image underwent a dramatic transformation. Once a beloved royal figure, she quickly became the most criticized member of the family in public opinion. The separation signaled a loss of prestige for both, as their royal luster began to fade.
The recent removal of his final honorary titles – membership in the Order of the Garter and the Royal Victoria Order – marks another significant fall from grace. Adding to his difficulties, Andrew has been asked to leave Royal Lodge, the expansive Windsor estate he called home for 22 years, and Sarah Ferguson is also reportedly moving out.
Reports initially suggested Andrew would relocate to a property on the Sandringham estate. However, the reality appears far less grand. He may be forced to occupy a significantly smaller residence while his intended new home undergoes extensive renovations.
According to one account, the move from Royal Lodge is proving unexpectedly complex. “A lorry has been and gone under the cover of darkness,” a source revealed, describing the process as a “painfully slow” excavation. Many of Andrew’s possessions are being placed in storage, highlighting the stark contrast between his former life and his uncertain future.
