Prince Andrew ‘Off the Hook’ and Free to Travel as FBI Releases New Memo on Epstein's List
Trigger warning: This article contains themes of sexual abuse and suicide that some readers may find distressing
Prince Andrew's controversial ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein became tabloid fodder after Virginia Giuffre claimed the Duke had illicit relations with her while she was underage. Following the bombshell allegation, Andrew gave his infamous 2019 BBC interview in which he denied knowing Giuffre but admitted to his friendship with Epstein. With the public feeling the Prince didn't offer a sincere apology, nor did he show any real remorse in the sit-down, the backlash was immense, with Andrew stepping back from public duties in 2019 and being stripped of his royal patronages in 2022. Now, a new FBI update on the so-called 'case of the century' reveals that investigators haven't uncovered Epstein’s alleged 'client list' — a document rumored to contain blackmail material on high-profile figures — much to Andrew’s relief.
Axios and ABC News recently reported that the FBI and Department of Justice (DOJ) released a memo outlining the findings and cited that no further investigations would be launched. The memo mentioned in a highlighted line, "This systematic review revealed no incriminating 'client list.' There was also no credible evidence found that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals as part of his actions." The outlets also concluded that Epstein indeed died of suicide at a New York City prison in 2019 without any foul play involved.
Nigel Cawthorne, author of Prince Andrew: Epstein, Maxwell and the Palace, also told Newsweek that Andrew would now be able to breathe a sigh of relief at the news, having never been charged. "He's off the hook, isn't he? The whole thing's run out of steam." Meanwhile, a source, commenting on the same, told The Sun, "He has been abroad once since the scandal erupted. But without the FBI investigation hanging over his head, he will feel it’s safe to travel." They added, "Hopefully, with this out of the way, it means he can at least leave the country. What’s he supposed to do with the rest of his life? He hasn’t been convicted of any crime and can’t sit around doing nothing at Royal Lodge forever."
According to a newly released two-page memo, investigators found no evidence to justify launching an investigation into uncharged third parties. The memo also emphasized that spreading baseless theories about Epstein does not serve justice or help the victims. It reaffirmed that one of the government's top priorities continues to be fighting child exploitation and securing justice for survivors. While the Duke of York was not formally banned from traveling abroad, he reportedly followed a self-imposed travel ban after his infamous BBC interview was released.
Andrew's ties to Epstein came to light when Giuffre alleged that the latter trafficked her in the early 2000s to have an inappropriate relationship with the Prince when she was 17. As reported by People magazine, Andrew settled with Giuffre out of court for an undisclosed sum in February 2022. Sadly, in April 2025, Giuffre's family announced that she had lost her life to suicide as the scandal became too much for her to bear.
If you are being subjected to sexual assault, or know of anyone who is, please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673)
If you are having thoughts about taking your own life, or know of anyone who is, please contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)