Prince Andrew with his daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.Photo: Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty
Prince Andrewis set for a public comeback of sorts.
The controversial royal, 62, is likely to attend the Order of the Garter ceremony on Monday, one of the key events in the annual royal calendar. As a knight in the order — the oldest order of chivalry in the world — he will join most of the rest of the royal family at Windsor, those close to him confirm to PEOPLE.
The event could see him walking with fellow knights — including his older brotherPrince Charlesand nephewPrince William— and former British Prime Ministers down the hill from Windsor Castle to the annual service at St. George’s Chapel.
Andrew was previously made a knight as a member ofQueen Elizabeth’s family, and he keeps that title irrespective of the other patronages and military titles he was forced to step away from in recent years. Andrew’sfall from graceamid his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein became complete in February when he reached an out-of-court settlement withVirginia Giuffrein her sexual assault lawsuit against him.
His appearance on Monday could overshadow that of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, who will be invested in the order at a ceremony earlier in the Throne Room at the castle. Camilla, 74, wasannounced as a new memberof the order in December — another step on her road to the most senior of royal roles.
Prince Charles, Kate Middleton and Prince William at Order of the Garter in 2011.Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool /Getty
The palace is not commenting on whether the Queen will be able to make it to the event. Palace aides have made it a practice to only confirm her attendance at events in the hours beforehand.
Garter Day at Windsor, which sees knights wear long velvet robes and a hat decorated with white ostrich and black heron feathers, is the first day of a festive week for the Queen. Her favorite Royal Ascot horse race meeting begins on Tuesday, but it is unknown whether ongoingmobility issueswill allow her to attend some or any of the days.
The Queen attending the service.Getty
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will also be invested in the order on Monday. The service hasn’t been able to take place for the last two years because of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Andrew was notably absent from Trooping the Colour on June 2, deciding not to attend after he was barred from appearing on the balcony of Buckingham Palace because he is no longer a working royal. The next dayhe missed the National Service of Thanksgiving, citing COVID positivity.
source: people.com
