Prince Edward Becomes First Royal to Speak Out on the Jeffrey Epstein Scandal – Video
Prince Edward has become the first senior member of the Royal Family to publicly comment on the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, doing so during a carefully managed exchange at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. His remarks, brief but pointed, immediately drew widespread attention and mixed reactions online.
A rare on stage question in Dubai
The moment unfolded on February 3, 2026, as Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, appeared on stage at the World Governments Summit. During a panel discussion focused on education and future policy, CNN journalist Eleni Giokos raised a sensitive issue that had dominated headlines in recent days.
She referred to the release of more than three million documents by the United States Department of Justice relating to the late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Acknowledging the difficulty of the topic and its proximity to the Royal Family, she asked the Duke how he was coping in light of the renewed scrutiny, particularly given public statements from King Charles III stressing the importance of focusing on victims.
Prince Edward initially indicated that the summit audience had not gathered to discuss controversy. He reminded those present that the event was centered on education and forward looking solutions. However, he then added a short but striking remark, saying it was vital to remember the victims and to recognise that there were many victims in all of this.
The journalist thanked him for addressing the question, noting the sensitivity of the moment and the work he had undertaken within the institution.
Public reaction and divided interpretations
Prince Edward’s response quickly circulated online and prompted sharply divided reactions. Some viewers interpreted his wording as an attempt to shield his older brother, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, whose name appeared repeatedly in the newly released documents.
One comment suggested that the Duke seemed to be defending his brother by questioning who the victims were. Others strongly rejected that interpretation, pointing out that many victims of Epstein have never come forward publicly and that Edward’s words could be read as acknowledging their silence rather than denying their suffering.
Criticism went beyond the substance of his remarks. Several online users focused on his body language and demeanor, questioning his tone and gestures. Others took a very different view, describing him as composed and resilient, with some even praising his intelligence and willingness to speak at all on such a fraught subject.
A number of comments highlighted how unusual it was for a royal to engage with the issue directly, given the family’s long standing preference for silence in matters of controversy.
Wider fallout from the document release
The renewed attention followed the Justice Department’s publication of extensive material detailing Epstein’s associations, including correspondence, images, and financial records. Andrew Mountbatten Windsor featured prominently, alongside references to his former wife Sarah Ferguson, who appeared in emails suggesting Epstein had used his connection to Andrew for personal advantage.
In October 2025, King Charles III formally began the process of stripping Andrew of his remaining titles and ensured he vacated his Windsor residence. The palace reiterated that the monarch’s sympathies lay with victims and survivors of abuse in all forms.
The fallout extended well beyond the Royal Family. Lord Peter Mandelson faced intense pressure over his historical links to Epstein and ultimately resigned his Labour Party membership following the disclosures. Documents appeared to show financial transactions and correspondence between the two dating back to the early 2000s.
Against this backdrop, Prince Edward’s visit to the United Arab Emirates continued as planned. Palace officials stated that his focus remained on promoting education and youth development through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. During the trip, he was scheduled to meet students and educators to discuss expanding opportunities for young people worldwide.
While brief, his comments marked a rare public acknowledgment of a scandal that has long cast a shadow over the monarchy, and they underscored the delicate balance the Royal Family continues to navigate between silence, responsibility, and public expectation.
