Prince Andrew Biography 2026: Age, Height, Arrest, Epstein Scandal, Family, Children & More

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York, is the second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip and the younger brother of King Charles III. Once second in line to the British throne and a decorated Falklands War veteran, he has become one of the most controversial figures in modern royal history. Stripped of all royal titles in 2025, he made global headlines again on February 19, 2026—his 66th birthday—when he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to his long-standing ties with the late convicted sex offender jeffrey epstein. Now living as a private citizen, his dramatic fall from grace continues to captivate the public.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Andrew Albert Christian Edward was born on February 19, 1960, at Buckingham Palace—the first child born to a reigning British monarch in 103 years. He spent his early years with a governess and attended Heatherdown Preparatory School in Berkshire. Like his father and elder brother Charles, he went to Gordonstoun boarding school in Scotland, where he earned A-levels in English, history, and economics. In 1977 he spent a term at Lakefield College School in Ontario, Canada. He joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and trained at Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.

Career Journey

Royal Navy & Falklands War Hero (1979–2001)

Andrew began as a midshipman and trained as a helicopter pilot. In 1982 he served aboard HMS Invincible during the Falklands War, flying anti-submarine and search-and-rescue missions. His service earned him respect as one of the few royals to see active combat. He later became a helicopter warfare instructor, commanded the minesweeper HMS Cottesmore (1993–1994), and retired in 2001 with the rank of commander (later honorary vice admiral).

Trade Envoy & Working Royal (2001–2019)

After leaving active service, he served as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment (2001–2011). He carried out hundreds of official engagements, supporting charities and attending state events. He held numerous military honorary titles and patronages until they were removed in 2022.

Career Stats Snapshot

• Military service: 22 years (active combat in Falklands)
• Trade envoy role: 10 years
• Royal engagements: Thousands before 2019 withdrawal

Personal Life

Andrew married Sarah Ferguson on July 23, 1986, at Westminster Abbey; he was created Duke of York the same day. The couple had two daughters: Beatrice (August 8, 1988) and Eugenie (March 23, 1990). They separated in 1992 after a series of tabloid scandals and divorced amicably in 1996. They have remained close friends and lived together at Royal Lodge, Windsor Great Park, until early 2026. Sarah Ferguson’s current whereabouts are unknown; she is believed to be overseas (possibly UAE or French Alps) after their eviction from Royal Lodge.

Dating History
Andrew had a well-documented playboy reputation in his youth. Notable past relationships included actress Koo Stark and others before and after his marriage.

Controversies

Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein, which began in the late 1990s, has defined the latter part of his life. In 2019 he stepped back from public duties after a disastrous BBC interview about his friendship with the convicted sex offender. Virginia Giuffre accused him of sexual abuse when she was 17 (he denied it); the civil case settled out of court in 2022 for a reported £12 million. He lost military titles and patronages in 2022.

In October 2025 King Charles III stripped him of his remaining royal titles and HRH style; he became Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and was asked to leave Royal Lodge. A major unauthorized biography, Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York by Andrew Lownie (August 2025), detailed further allegations about his finances and personal life.

On February 19, 2026, Thames Valley Police arrested him at his Norfolk residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The charges relate to allegations that he shared confidential UK government information with Epstein while serving as trade envoy. Searches were carried out at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk. King Charles stated the “law must take its course.” He remains in police custody as of February 19, 2026.

Awards & Achievements

• South Atlantic Medal (Falklands War)
• Various honorary military ranks (most stripped)
• Former patron of dozens of charities (most removed 2022)

Physical Statistics

• Height: 6′ 0″ (1.83 m)
• Build: Athletic (former pilot and sportsman)
• Distinctive features: Tall stature, once noted as the tallest senior royal

Quotes

“There is no question of a return to public life.” – Official statement, 2019

“I am willing to help any appropriate agency with their investigations.” – Statement after 2019 Epstein links emerged

Interesting Facts

• He was the first royal child born to a reigning monarch since 1857.
• During the Falklands War, Argentine forces reportedly tried to target HMS Invincible specifically because he was aboard.
• He and Sarah Ferguson still share a close friendship and have called themselves “the happiest divorced couple in the world.”

Did You Know Already?

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on his 66th birthday—February 19, 2026—marking the first arrest of a member of the British royal family in centuries.

Social Media Links

Andrew has no official personal social media accounts. Updates about the family usually come via Buckingham Palace or his daughters’ verified accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in 2026?
He turned 66 on February 19, 2026.

Why was Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested?
He was arrested on February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office over allegations he shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as UK trade envoy.

Is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor still a prince?
No. All royal titles, including “Prince” and “Duke of York,” were removed by King Charles III in October 2025.

What is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s net worth?
Estimates place it between $3 million and $5 million, primarily from his Royal Navy pension and past property sales.

Where does Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor live now?
He moved to a property on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk after vacating Royal Lodge in early February 2026.

Conclusion

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s story is one of privilege, service, scandal, and steep decline. From Falklands hero to the first senior royal arrested in modern history, his life has been marked by both duty and controversy. As the 2026 investigation unfolds, the former prince remains a figure of intense public fascination and royal family embarrassment.

If this in-depth look at Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s life helped answer your questions, feel free to share it. What aspect of his story surprises you most? Let us know in the comments.