Prince Andrew's Easter comeback was 'frustrating' for royal family, source reveals

Prince Andrew’s unexpected return to the royal spotlight this Easter may have looked like a show of unity but behind palace doors, tensions are running high.

The Duke of York, 65, was spotted walking into St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for Easter Sunday service, flanked by King Charles and other senior royals. 

But notably absent were Prince William and Princess Kate, who extended their break in Norfolk instead of attending the family gathering.

Now, insiders are revealing the real reason William chose to stay away and it’s not just about family time.

“William has no time for his uncle,” a royal source told The Mirror. “This Easter was about spending time with his own family, but he would far prefer a situation where he doesn't have to spend time with him.”

While King Charles appeared to welcome his brother at the Easter service, insiders say patience within the family is wearing thin.

“The Duke seems to be in the habit of being a significant contributor of headaches for the family,” a senior royal source said. “Many have run out of patience with him.”

Despite the ongoing tension, Andrew was joined at Easter by ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. The family walked together, with Fergie smiling and waving to cameras — while William and Kate remained hundreds of miles away.

Andrew’s attendance marked a sharp contrast to last Christmas, when he was reportedly disinvited from Sandringham amid fresh controversy.

Why Andrew remains a controversial figure in the royal family

Andrew’s royal reputation has been heavily tainted by a string of scandals including his £12 million out-of-court settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault in connection to Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking network. 

While Andrew has vehemently denied all allegations, the damage to his public image and the monarchy remains.

On top of that, the Duke was linked last year to Yang Tengbo, a Chinese businessman with alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Though Andrew claimed the meeting came via “official channels,” the connection reportedly sparked security concerns.

RELATED: Prince William the 'only one' standing in the way of Prince Andrew's royal return