A surprising member of the Royal Family could soon be in line to inherit one of its most historically significant—and controversial—titles, following Prince Andrew’s forced renunciation due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.

Prince Louis Positioned as Potential Future Duke of York

Prince Louis, the youngest son of Prince William and Princess Catherine, may one day receive the title Duke of York now that Prince Andrew has relinquished it along with its accompanying honors. This title has historically been granted to the monarch’s second son, a tradition that began in the 14th century and has been revived several times throughout royal history.

History of the Duke of York Title

The title has notable royal heritage. King George VI held it before ascending to the throne in 1936 after the abdication of Edward VIII. Later, in 1986, Queen Elizabeth II revived the title for her third child, Prince Andrew, when he married Sarah Ferguson. However, after years marked by scandal and public controversy, the 65-year-old prince has now withdrawn from public duties and surrendered his dukedom.

Succession Rules Point to Prince Louis

Since the title is hereditary through the male line, Prince Andrew’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, are not eligible to inherit. Once Andrew passes away, the title will return to the Crown, leaving the future monarch—King William V—with the authority to bestow it upon someone else. According to tradition, that individual could be Prince Louis.

Prince Louis, currently seven years old, is fourth in line to the throne after his father and his two older siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Prince George is expected to become Prince of Wales and eventually King George VII, while Princess Charlotte is anticipated to receive the title of Princess Royal, given to the monarch’s eldest daughter.

Future Titles for the Wales Children Still Undecided

A source told royal correspondent Tom Sykes that decisions about the Wales children’s future titles are being kept open for them to choose later in life:
“The Wales children are never addressed as prince or princess in any situation by their parents, teachers, staff, or family,” the source said.

This approach reflects Prince William’s modern perspective on royal roles, allowing his children autonomy in deciding whether they will become full-time working royals.

William Influenced by European Monarchies

Another insider noted that Prince William has been observing the approach taken by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark. In 2022, she removed princely titles from four of her grandchildren—Nikolai, Felix, Henrik, and Athena—to give them “greater freedom” over their futures.
“William won’t be afraid to take the next step,” the source added.

William’s Reported Disdain for Prince Andrew

Meanwhile, royal author Angela Levin revealed that Prince William remains deeply opposed to his uncle Prince Andrew playing any role in the monarchy. She told Sky News host Paul Murray:
“Prince William is absolutely hysterically hating this man, who made the stand that he is not going to do anything with any of the Royal Family. When he takes over to be King, he is not going to let him come to the coronation. He just doesn’t want anything to do with him whatsoever.”