Explore the full biography of Prince Andrew, Duke of York. Discover his age, net worth, early life, royal family background, notable controversies, and books written about him.
Prince Andrew, Duke of York, is a British royal and the second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Once celebrated for his military service and royal duties, Andrew’s later years have been overshadowed by controversy. Still, his life reflects the complexity of modern royalty — balancing public expectations, service, scandal, and legacy.
“I am who I am… but I strive to do my duty as best I can.” – Prince Andrew
From his early naval career to high-profile legal battles, Prince Andrew’s biography is a mixture of tradition, privilege, duty, and public scrutiny.
Highlights of This Biography
Born on February 19, 1960, at Buckingham Palace, London
Second son and third child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip
Served in the Royal Navy during the Falklands War
Held the title Duke of York since 1986
Stepped back from royal duties amid public controversy in 2019
Net worth estimated between $20 million and $45 million
Early Life and Royal Background
Prince Andrew Albert Christian Edward was born on February 19, 1960, in Buckingham Palace, London. He is the third child and second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Educated at prestigious institutions, Andrew attended Gordonstoun School in Scotland and later joined the Royal Naval College Dartmouth. Unlike his older brother, King Charles III, Andrew was considered more sporty and outgoing during his youth, earning him the nickname “Randy Andy” in the British press due to his flamboyant lifestyle.
Military Service and Career
Prince Andrew served in the Royal Navy for over two decades. His notable contributions include:
Training as a helicopter pilot
Serving aboard the HMS Invincible
Participating in active combat during the Falklands War (1982)
His military career was seen as a source of pride for the royal family and greatly improved his public image during the 1980s.
Royal Duties and Public Life
In 1986, Queen Elizabeth II granted him the title Duke of York. That same year, he married Sarah Ferguson (Fergie), with whom he shares two daughters:
Princess Beatrice (born 1988)
Princess Eugenie (born 1990)
The couple divorced in 1996 but maintained a close friendship.
Over the years, Prince Andrew represented the UK on various diplomatic missions and served as a trade envoy. However, his public role was gradually reduced due to mounting controversies, particularly regarding his association with financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Controversies and Public Backlash
Prince Andrew’s connection to Epstein and his involvement in the Virginia Giuffre lawsuit caused widespread public outrage. In 2019, his BBC Newsnight interview—intended to clear his name—was widely criticized and ultimately led to:
His stepping down from royal duties
His loss of military affiliations and royal patronages
A settlement in the civil lawsuit (reportedly over £12 million)
Although he continues to deny wrongdoing, his public image has suffered significantly, and he remains largely out of the spotlight.
Net Worth and Financial Status
As of 2025, Prince Andrew’s net worth is estimated between $20 million and $45 million. His wealth comes from:
A royal allowance (formerly funded through the Sovereign Grant)
Inheritance from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip
Personal investments and royal trust funds
Past support from Queen Elizabeth II in legal and living expenses
Despite stepping back from public duties, Andrew continues to reside at Royal Lodge in Windsor, a royal residence he has long occupied.
Books and Media Portrayals
While Prince Andrew has not written a book himself, several authors and investigative journalists have published works focused on his life and scandals, including:
“Prince Andrew: The End of the Monarchy and Epstein Scandal” by Nigel Cawthorne
“The Palace Papers” by Tina Brown
Numerous documentaries and docuseries across BBC, Netflix, and ITV
These publications have fueled public debate about royal accountability, media scrutiny, and institutional privilege.
Conclusion
Prince Andrew, Duke of York, has led a life filled with prestige, duty, and deep controversy. Once regarded as a decorated war hero and favored royal, his recent years have been defined by scandal and isolation from official duties. His story is a complex reflection of what it means to be a royal figure in the 21st century.
“Royalty does not exempt one from accountability.” – Public sentiment on Prince Andrew
Whether he will ever return to public life remains uncertain. For now, his biography serves as a cautionary tale of how influence, power, and responsibility can be irrevocably challenged in the public eye.
FAQs About Prince Andrew
What is Prince Andrew’s age?
He is 65 years old, born on February 19, 1960.
What is Prince Andrew’s net worth?
His estimated net worth ranges from $20 million to $45 million as of 2025.
Who are Prince Andrew’s children?
He has two daughters: Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
What is Prince Andrew’s title?
He holds the title Duke of York, granted in 1986.
Has Prince Andrew written any books?
No, but several books have been written about him, covering both his royal duties and controversies.
Is Prince Andrew still active in the Royal Family?
No. He stepped back from official duties in 2019 and remains largely out of the public eye due to legal and reputational issues.