Prince Andrew Faces £12 Million Debt to Royal Family Over Epstein Settlement
Prince Andrew, the disgraced former Duke of York, reportedly owes the Royal Family a staggering £12 million after failing to repay loans used to settle a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, a prominent victim of sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. According to sources, the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and King Charles collectively provided the funds to cover an out-of-court agreement in 2022, but Andrew has not returned any of the money.
Details of the Royal Loans and Settlement
The Sun reports that the late Queen contributed up to £7 million, while Prince Philip's estate provided £3 million following his death. King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, added £1.5 million to facilitate the settlement with Giuffre, who accused Andrew of sexual assault on three occasions when she was 17 years old. The settlement aimed to draw a line under the scandal ahead of the Platinum Jubilee in February 2022, but a source revealed, "Andrew's not paid back a penny."
Giuffre, who sued Andrew in 2021, was found dead in her Australian home in April 2025. The settlement ensured Andrew would avoid facing her in a U.S. court, with a source noting, "The money from the Royal Family bought her silence but denied Virginia her day in court."
Failed Repayment Plans and Mounting Scrutiny
Andrew had hoped to repay the loans by selling his Swiss ski chalet in Verbier, but the plan collapsed due to heavy mortgage debt, resulting in minimal proceeds from the sale. Meanwhile, Andrew continues to face intense scrutiny over his ties to Epstein, with newly released files showing him sharing confidential trade reports and images allegedly linking him to Epstein's activities.
Thames Valley Police is investigating claims that Andrew divulged sensitive information from his role as a UK trade envoy. King Charles has expressed "profound concern" over the allegations, and Buckingham Palace has pledged to support police inquiries if approached.
Royal Family's Response and Ongoing Fallout
The late Queen was reportedly "heartbroken" by the Epstein scandal but reluctant to banish Andrew. The Prince and Princess of Wales have issued their first public statement on the matter, expressing deep concern for the victims. As the Epstein files continue to reveal details, Andrew maintains his denial of any wrongdoing, but the financial and reputational repercussions persist for the Royal Family.
