Prince Andrew’s ‘Siege of Royal Lodge’ Watching TV in a Darkened Room as King Charles Grows Impatient

As the real estate saga between King Charles III and his younger brother, Prince Andrew, continues, new details have emerged about the Duke of York’s post-royal life. According to The Sun, the 64-year-old prince, who stepped down from royal duties in 2020 due to his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, now spends most of his days “watching TV in a darkened room” within the sprawling, 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire.

The palatial property, valued at approximately $57 million, has been Prince Andrew’s residence since 2004. However, recent reports suggest that the Duke is struggling to afford the estate’s annual upkeep and repair costs, estimated at $750,000. King Charles, who is funding his brother’s post-royal life, is keen on convincing Andrew to downgrade to the slightly smaller Frogmore Cottage, the former home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Despite the King’s efforts, Prince Andrew has reportedly refused to budge, much to Charles’ frustration. Recent photos published by The Sun reveal the deteriorating state of the Royal Lodge, with its stucco-like exterior falling away and mold growing on its surface. Insiders have dubbed the ongoing housing debacle the “siege of Royal Lodge,” as the monarch becomes increasingly impatient with his brother’s refusal to accept offers of new lodgings.

“Andrew’s holding on by his fingertips right now, perhaps hoping that one of his wealthy friends might kick in some funds,” royal author Christopher Anderson told Fox News. “But it’s highly doubtful that would work. King Charles III is becoming increasingly impatient and wants to simultaneously punish his brother, show everyone who’s boss, and restore Royal Lodge to its former glory.”

The stand-off between the brothers is further complicated by the fact that Prince Andrew still holds a 75-year lease on the property, while King Charles controls the purse strings. A source told The Times, “As things stand, life at Royal Lodge is set to become increasingly cold and uncomfortable for the duke. The only question now is when he will realize that he has become a prisoner of his own pride – and that handing back the keys will afford him far greater comfort, and the continued support of his family.”

Despite the grim portrayal of Prince Andrew’s daily life, the Royal Lodge itself boasts an impressive array of features and amenities. The Grade II-listed mega-mansion, with its eye-catching white exterior, has 30 rooms, including seven bedrooms spread across the two topmost floors. The property has played host to the wedding receptions of both Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, Andrew’s daughters with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.

Ingrid Seward, Editor-in-Chief of Majesty Magazine, described the interior of the Royal Lodge as “classic elegance and full of beautiful antique furniture and rugs.” She noted the presence of a giant TV screen for Andrew, alongside pictures from the royal collection adorning the walls. The grounds of the estate include a Gardener’s Cottage, the Chapel Lodge, six Lodge Cottages, and police security accommodation.

Despite the grandeur of his surroundings, Prince Andrew’s life at the Royal Lodge is said to be increasingly isolated. The disgraced Duke reportedly goes horse riding daily to “help him get out,” but sources claim he cannot continue to meet the mounting repair bills, estimated at £400,000 a year. The Sun reported last year that the property currently needs an estimated £2 million in repairs, with the Duke reportedly paying £200,000 for roof repairs alone.

As the feud between King Charles and Prince Andrew continues, the crisis shows no sign of abating. The monarch is said to be unwilling to keep paying out of his own pocket to fund his brother’s lavish lifestyle, with sources close to the King claiming he could be forced to “reconsider the levels of support he is willing to provide” if the “siege of Royal Lodge” persists.

The ongoing saga has been further compounded by recent media depictions of Prince Andrew’s downfall, including the hit Netflix drama “Scoop,” which details his infamous “car crash” Newsnight interview, and an upcoming Amazon series featuring actor Michael Sheen portraying the disgraced Duke.