Palace Intrigue: A daily Royal Family podcast

From “predictably insipid” to “zero stars,” the reviews for With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration are in — and they're harsher than Harry's anti-salad rant. Today we sift through the critics calling the special “unfathomable,” “quite mad,” and even “a little bit sad.” We've got The Independent questioning Will Guidara's will to live, The Standard accusing Netflix of trolling its own star, and The Telegraph wondering how you explain family estrangement through Christmas ornaments. Grab some Reindeer Chow — you're going to need it.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

From a twenty-foot Nordmann fir glittering in St George's Hall to recycled tinsel, charity stockings made from old Sandringham curtains and a special Radio 4 appearance by the King from Dumfries House, we take you inside the Royal Household's Christmas season. We revisit the royal family's Sandringham traditions, from Christmas Eve gifts and church at St Mary Magdalene to black-tie dinners and cards signed months in advance, and look at how King Charles the Third is blending sustainability with nostalgia. Then we track a busy second day of the German state visit, from quiet reflection at the Tomb of Queen Elizabeth the Second to Guildhall banquets, school visits and speeches at Westminster – a reminder of how royal Christmas pageantry and quiet diplomacy now sit side by side.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle is said to be “devastated” after a Thanksgiving turkey video sparked online fury over her kitchen hygiene, just as lukewarm buzz around her Netflix holiday special raises questions about whether a third season will ever happen. We look at reports that the Sussexes are suddenly keeping a lower profile, the Real Housewives of London cast's frosty reaction to the idea of Meghan joining the show, and new claims that Prince Andrew wants £75 million, a replacement Sandringham home and full support staff before he'll even think about leaving Royal Lodge. Plus, we've got fresh reporting on a possible public inquiry into the Andrew lease deal, his and Sarah's apparent absence from Christmas at Sandringham for a second year running, an Eric Clapton date on the Sandringham estate, and why today's German state visit optics have some observers saying William is already acting like the monarchy's de facto operational leader – as Queen Camilla quietly says goodbye to her “hot” equerry Major Ollie Plunket.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle's holiday Netflix special, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, drops today – complete with crafts, cookies, cameos and a blink-and-you'll-miss-it Harry kitchen kiss – but critics say this Christmas outing may be a make-or-break test for her brand. We look at the guest list, the Archewell spin, and fresh reports that Netflix and WME see the coming year as crucial as Meghan lines up brief on-screen cameos to boost As Ever. Then we turn to Windsor, where the German President's state visit puts the Prince and Princess of Wales front and centre once again, fuelling new talk of how differently the Wales and Sussex households are now positioning themselves on the world stage.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Prince William is reportedly set to avoid Christmas lunch with the King for the third year running, as insiders insist there's “no controversy”—just a difficult year for the Waleses. Meanwhile, Kate's interior design eye is on full display as Forest Lodge takes shape, complete with a dining table big enough for 24. But holiday harmony hits a snag when Charles pushes plans for a two-million-gallon manure lagoon near Anmer Hall, leaving locals—and likely the Waleses—holding their noses. We preview a packed week of royal duties, from William's tech stop to the German state visit to Kate's Christmas carol service. Plus: William's “better wife” quip in Wales, his surprise pub lunch (and £25 tip), and King Charles finally stripping Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his last remaining honours as Tina Brown reveals the palace's fears about what Andrew might do next.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

The Duchess of Sussex kicks off December the only way she knows how: with a fresh avalanche of headlines. Meghan fires back at accusations she kept a designer dress without permission, unveils a meticulously curated “relatable mom” breakfast routine, and once again features Archie and Lilibet in that now-infamous fake-private photo style critics say is more marketing than motherhood. Then she sparks a Thanksgiving food fight after rubbing down a raw turkey—bracelets on, hair loose, no gloves—in what Reddit quickly dubbed “Salmonella Sussex.” We also look at the new As Ever push inside Soho Home, the brand's traffic struggles compared to Goop, and the viral backlash over her illegible leather bookmark.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Speculation grows that Sarah Ferguson may be preparing a high-profile interview as the Andrew scandal intensifies. Reports suggest the pair are no longer welcome at London's exclusive Annabel's club, Andrew's Freedom of the City could face review, and commentators warn both are struggling under the pressure. New claims emerge about Princess Anne's furious reaction during the toe-sucking scandal of the nineteen-nineties, while King Charles is said to be quietly considering occasional royal duties for Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie — even as Beatrice's recent Saudi Arabia appearance sparks concern inside the Palace.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Prince Harry's appearance as the headline speaker at a Toronto real estate conference is raising eyebrows across the royal world. Tickets cost up to four hundred ninety-nine Canadian dollars, the event is political in tone, and commentators question whether this latest paid engagement pushes the Duke even further from any possible royal return. Meanwhile, Meghan is reportedly seeking early legal advice about protecting her Duchess of Sussex title under a future reign. Plus: continued fallout from Meghan's Harper's Bazaar cover, criticism of the Sussexes' commercial use of their titles, and Tina Brown's blunt assessment of the couple's post-royal missteps.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle has someone announce "Meghan, Duchess of Sussex" when she enters a room—even when she appears to be the only other person there. The Harper's Bazaar detail prompts accusations she's risen to "comic levels of self-importance," with one critic comparing it to the SNL sketch announcing "Lord and Lady Douchebag."She also admits she invited herself to Balenciaga's Paris show. The Kardashian fallout deepens as Kris Jenner reportedly "cannot let slide" the photo deletion request, planning to freeze out the Sussexes from Hollywood. Bethenny Frankel delivers brutal analysis: they tried to put "50 pounds of shit in a five-pound bag." Questions emerge over whether Meghan kept a designer dress from a 2022 photoshoot. Harry felt like "fish out of water" at Jenner's party and now wants to bring the children to UK against Meghan's wishes. Meghan films Thanksgiving video wearing $247,000 in jewelry while glazing turkey in satin gown—in a rented mansion, not her home.The BBC received 728 complaints for calling Kate "Kate Middleton." Kate extends olive branch to Beatrice and Eugenie with carol service invites. Prince George "loved" the apple juice Kate's friend sent home. Andrew ignores Congress testimony request, still eating alone at massive table with silver service. William plans to strip titles from non-working royals and scrap "ridiculous" traditions like velvet robes. Duke of York title likely retired forever—Louis won't get it.Plus: AI deepfakes of the Queen rapping, Diana had tabloids smuggled into palace, and the monarchy adapts while others wonder what adaptation actually requires.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle has once again landed at the top of a “most hated celebrity” ranking, with Harry not far behind — but that hasn't slowed her push to turn As Ever into a Kardashian-style brand machine. We'll look at why voters say they're fed up, what her ex-stepmother and half-sister are still fighting about, the latest gossip tying her to Taylor Swift's wedding guest list, and Ingrid Seward's blunt verdict that Meghan is “just another person flogging makeup” without the Duchess title. Plus, Chrissy Teigen calls her “kind and strong,” and a Vogue writer turns Meghan's candles and sparkling wine into the emotional support props for a very on-brand, As Ever–fuelled breakup.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

AI-generated videos of the Royal Family are flooding the internet, featuring everything from rapping Queens to wrestling Dianas, as British intelligence warns of foreign meddling. Meanwhile, King Charles earns praise for his newfound warmth with the public, Queen Camilla's son jokes that a royal title would spark a revolution, and “Supernanny” hails William and Kate's down-to-earth parenting. Plus, meet Gen-Z's new royal heartthrob Albert Windsor, and find out why Diana once had tabloids smuggled into Kensington Palace.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

On Saturday we'll be sharing epsiodes of Crown and Controvery's first season.  You can listen to the rest of Seaosn 1 and Season 2 in the Crown and Controversy feed AND you may also like Crown and Controversy: Norway.Westminster Abbey becomes the stage for the wedding of the century as Kate's breathtaking Alexander McQueen dress is revealed to a waiting world. William and Harry make their emotional journey from Clarence House while two billion viewers watch the couple exchange vows before assembled royalty and dignitaries. The carriage procession through London's cheering crowds leads to the iconic Buckingham Palace balcony appearance and the kiss that captivated the globe. As William and Catherine are proclaimed Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, a new chapter in royal history begins.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

A new wave of reporting paints William as the heir poised to remake the monarchy in his own image: fewer titles, fewer palaces, more WhatsApp and school runs. We'll explore claims he wants non-working royals stripped of their princely styles, why Prince George may be the first modern king without real military service, and how the Queen was once “irritated” when William skipped what became her final England engagement. With insiders comparing him to a European “bicycling monarchy,” talk of retiring the cursed Duke of York title, and speculation that Louis could one day become Duke of Edinburgh instead, this episode looks at how William's push for normal family life might collide with centuries of royal tradition.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan scores a Black Friday marketing victory: her As Ever “legally fruit spreads” land on Oprah's Favorite Things list, with a glowing endorsement about Meghan's homemade recipes and a $42 gift box of marmalade, raspberry, and exclusive strawberry. But as her team celebrates, the trailer for her upcoming Netflix holiday special is taking a beating in the press.The Telegraph calls the preview “as joyless as coal in your stocking,” accusing Meghan of trying to eclipse the Waleses and refusing to say “Christmas” even while selling Christmas content. Deep Crown notes the irony of capitalizing on a holiday she can't bring herself to mention.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan declares Thanksgiving in Montecito “low-key,” which apparently means harvesting sage in poetic slow-motion while launching a $32 Sage Honey from her backyard bees. A glossy As Ever video shows her glazing a turkey in a $297 satin gown paired with nearly a quarter-million dollars in jewellery — prompting the internet to ask why anyone would cook in couture. Critics also pounced on her muted “manila envelope” holiday palette, accusing her of recycling the same beige aesthetic she once blamed on royal protocol.Meanwhile, PR experts say her recent influencer-style reels expose a growing authenticity problem, with Tom Sykes calling out her “staged November 16 Christmas decorating” and comparing the misstep to the infamous upside-down jam tongs.Grant Harrold says the Sussexes are now “eating humble pie,” Harry is reportedly desperate to go home for Christmas, and insiders claim he's homesick, lonely, and waiting for the King's green light. Expect Meghan to go “offline” for her peaceful Montecito feast — and let's see of we get a photo of Harry looking miserable watching the Cowboys.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan sparks accusations she kept designer items from an old Variety shoot after appearing in a Netflix promo wearing a dress linked to earlier claims. Critics pounce: commentators call the Harper's Bazaar intro “embarrassing,” Liz Jones torches Meghan's jam-making mommy-preneur routine, and The Times mocks her “nepo baby bravery” spiel. Online comparisons to Princess Diana explode again — with one pundit calling Meghan “the creepiest, most sinister, most wretched person on the face of the earth.” Meanwhile, a resurfaced Rose Hanbury rumor sets royal watchers buzzing after a quickly deleted post allegedly claimed Kate once demanded Rose be “phased out.” Kate stays focused, however, with a visit to Anna Freud and new early-childhood initiatives. It's a brutal day for Meghan — critics in the press, critics online, critics in Hollywood — and the pile-on shows no signs of slowingHear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Harry wants the kids back in Britain — even if Meghan hates the idea — and insiders say he's ready to push ahead “no matter the consequences.” Reports claim he misses pubs, old friends, and actual British life. Meanwhile, fallout from Kris Jenner's Bond-theme bash continues, with experts saying Harry looked like a “fish out of water” and the Kardashians are privately fuming. Tom Sykes dissects Picture-gate, PR pros slam Meghan's “return to acting,” Bethenny Frankel says the Sussexes “tried to ride two horses,” and Meghan posts an early holiday stocking-stuffing video because of course she does. The couple hints at another Australia trip and donates to the Masaka Kids ahead of their Netflix doc. It's the full Sussex circus, mid-week edition.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

The BBC apologizes after 728 complaints about calling her “Kate Middleton,” so today we lean all the way in. The Princess of Wales offers a sunny explanation for her lighter hair, quietly invites Beatrice and Eugenie to her carol service, unveils a new Conjugal Coat of Arms with William, and releases a video that insiders insist contains subtle-but-pointed commentary about “toxic-free futures” — widely read as a gentle boundary message aimed at Andrew. We also revisit her surprisingly sweet friendship with Roman Kemp and why the Wales household now runs on homemade apple juice. It's an all Princess of Wales episode… and she is, as always, wonderfulHear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Today's episode examines reports that Prince Harry is preparing to bring Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to Britain more regularly despite Meghan's objections, alongside accounts of the Duke feeling out of place at Kris Jenner's Bond-themed birthday party. We break down new analysis of “Picture-gate” from The Royalist, PR criticism of Meghan's “return to acting,” and Bethenny Frankel's pointed commentary on the Sussexes' fractured public image. Also featured: Meghan's early holiday preparations, hints of a future visit to Australia, and the couple's $50,000 donation to the Masaka Kids Africana ahead of their upcoming Netflix documentary.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

ew reports dredge up the chaos of Andrew and Sarah Ferguson's early marriage — including claims Andrew saw more than a dozen women in year one, while Sarah and John Bryan allegedly carried on after-hours at Sunninghill Park. Freshly exposed emails show a journalist telling Jeffrey Epstein that Andrew “had consensual sex with [redacted],” a phrasing Epstein did not challenge.Meanwhile, palace insiders say Andrew is still living like nothing has changed: riding horses at Windsor, demanding silver-service dinners, crates of champagne for dwindling friends, and a full staff — all while the King and Waleses fume. He's ignored a request from U.S. lawmakers to testify, is reportedly considering selling off personal memorabilia for cash, and remains furious over his daughters' lost security. As one insider put it: “His world has collapsed, but he's still acting like the man of the manor.”Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle's Harper's Bazaar cover is making headlines not just for the clothes and quotes, but for the moment a house manager reportedly announced, “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex,” into an almost empty Upper East Side room. Supporters say it is simply protocol and branding, with etiquette expert Myka Meier noting that using a British title socially or professionally “is not unusual or improper,” especially when that's how someone is widely known. Critics, however, accuse Meghan of clinging to status she once claimed not to care about, with royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams calling the scene “pricelessly comic” and suggesting it would fit straight into a South Park sketch. The New York Post's Kristin Fleming compared it to an old Saturday Night Live bit about overblown introductions, while others pointed out that protocol usually calls for visitors to be presented to a royal, not the royal being announced to a guest. Meanwhile, opinion writers are picking apart the “makeup-free” aesthetic of the shoot, with The Independent's Katie Rosseinsky questioning why bare-faced celebrity portraits are treated as acts of bravery in between luxury knitwear, Balenciaga, and perfect skin.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

A Nazi propagandist was working as a Buckingham Palace warden while secretly leading Britain's neo-fascist movement. Bombshell claims emerge that Jeffrey Epstein planned to murder Andrew and Sarah with a "UK sniper for hire" before his death, as newly released emails show Andrew calling himself "The Duke" and Epstein describing him as "great fun." Andrew spotted for first time since losing titles, claiming he's "reset" and introducing himself as "Mr. Windsor." Kate's £1.6 million jewels at Royal Variety Performance completely overshadow Meghan's Netflix trailer released same night—proving why Catherine "creates the moment" while Meghan just "creates content."Meghan faces mockery over untoasted bagels with cream cheese smeared on plate, American influencer claims her $64 candle arrived without wick ("I got Markled!"), and Harper's Bazaar profile reveals she has staff announce "Meghan, Duchess of Sussex" in private brownstones. William reportedly "furious" Charles allowed York princesses back to royal duties, "hurt and angry" over Beckham knighthood stealing Earthshot thunder, and was denied request to scale back workload during "hardest year." Harry's phone hacking case collapses as key witness recants testimony. Tina Brown: Queen "enabled Andrew in a really terrible way."Plus: the floodgates open, scandals multiply, and the institution faces chaos from within.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

A round-up of the latest Sussex and royal developments, as Meghan Markle becomes the target of new Spitting Image sketches parodying her acting ambitions, while reports claim she is “fuming” after the Princess of Wales secured Kate Winslet for her Together at Christmas concert. We look at suggestions that Meghan's As Ever brand and her Netflix series were excluded from the streamer's new retail venture, fresh accounts of her networking at Kris Jenner's birthday celebration, and confirmation that Prince Harry will headline a leadership conference in Toronto. Also in today's episode: Tina Brown's sharp remarks about the late Queen's role in enabling Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and a report alleging that the King may seek to reclaim the late Queen's beloved corgis.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle covers Harper's Bazaar in a profile positioning her as finally reclaiming her narrative. From the La Brea Tar Pits to lunch at the Polo Lounge to New York in the rain, Meghan opens up about childhood, boundaries, work ethic, motherhood, creativity, and mistakes. She shares vivid memories of the 1992 L.A. uprising, talks about raising brave children, and reflects on Harry's “bold” love and their shared sense of play. Friends including Serena Williams, Kelly Zajfen and Oprah lieutenant Terry Wood describe Meghan as loyal, smart, funny and fiercely authentic. And yes — even in a private brownstone, someone still announces: “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.”Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

On Saturday we'll be sharing epsiodes of Crown and Controvery's first season.  You can listen to the rest of Seaosn 1 and Season 2 in the Crown and Controversy feed AND you may also like Crown and Controversy: Norway.The night before the royal wedding brings nervous anticipation as London transforms into a festival of patriotism. Kate spends her final evening as a commoner with her family at the exclusive Goring Hotel, while William shares a quiet dinner with Charles and Harry at Clarence House. Westminster Abbey undergoes its final transformation with living maple trees and symbolic flowers. Security teams conduct last-minute checks across the capital as private emotions and public expectations collide on the eve of the most anticipated royal event in decades.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle faced fresh criticism after releasing the trailer for her Netflix Christmas special at the exact moment the Prince and Princess of Wales were on the red carpet at the Royal Variety Performance. Commentators accused Meghan of trying to “steal Catherine's thunder,” noting a pattern of Sussex announcements landing during high-profile royal moments. Meanwhile, William and Kate turned the Royal Variety Performance into what one expert called a “private date night,” marking the Princess's radiant return following cancer treatment. With velvet looks, £1.6 million earrings, flirty glances, and Paddington banter, the Waleses delivered a masterclass in royal star power—prompting new comparisons to the Duchess of Sussex. Plus: Harry and Meghan invite Princess Eugenie to “break out of the royal bubble,” and Princess Beatrice unexpectedly pops up on Jeopardy!.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

New reporting highlights a surge of public interest in Prince William, from praise of his athletic appearance during recent engagements to a growing fascination with the fashion choices he shares with other senior royals. Coverage also explores Catherine's influence behind the scenes, King Charles's push to streamline palace operations, and fresh historical research challenging long-held assumptions about the Tudor succession. Additional stories examine the Princess Royal's steady popularity, a new portrait of King Charles in Country Life, and the unveiling of an AI-generated royal portrait.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

New claims from a source cited by Andrew Lownie allege that Jeffrey Epstein discussed a plan to “take out” Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, as fresh emails released by a United States congressional committee show Epstein calling the former duke “great fun” and referring to him by the codename “The Duke.” Andrew is seen in public for the first time since losing his titles, riding on the Windsor estate while negotiations over his move continue, and reports suggest King Charles has struck a private deal to protect Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie's future roles. There are also signs Sarah may seek refuge in Portugal as the fallout spreads. Against this backdrop, Kensington Palace confirms that the Prince and Princess of Wales will lead the family's public front at this year's Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

The BBC issues a formal apology after viewers complain that Armistice Day coverage referred to Catherine as “Kate Middleton” instead of the Princess of Wales. At the same time, Kensington Palace sets out her Christmas plans, announcing the fifth Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on the theme of love in all its forms. A new Mother Nature autumn video, recorded at Forest Lodge, highlights Catherine's reflective tone on change, connection and resilience. Deep Crown notes the careful timing of the Abbey concert alongside Meghan Markle's Netflix holiday special, calling the royal calendar “a considered narrative.” Elsewhere, the Prince of Wales opens a new access road for Mousehole AFC in Cornwall, wins praise for his modern media strategy after his Brazil trip, and an old school friend recalls young William once declaring that he wanted to be a policeman, long before everyone else started talking about him as a future king.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Friends say Andrew Mountbatten Windsor is embracing life without titles, joking about dating apps and introducing himself as “Mr Windsor,” even as newly released emails from Jeffrey Epstein's circle refer to a possible “massage” at Ghislaine Maxwell's London home and revive pressure for answers. Biographers and former staff paint a long portrait of Andrew as indulged, difficult and often bullying, while Sarah Ferguson's latest children's book is quietly withdrawn and commemorative plaques bearing Andrew's name are removed in the Falkland Islands amid calls to rename streets and landmarks. In the celebrity world, Paris Hilton turns heads by wearing a gown once made famous by Kate at a Bond premiere, palace sources dispute claims that Harry's Canadian visit was flagged in advance, and Tom Sykes in The Royalist argues that the Sussexes have stumbled into another public relations crisis over deleted party photos and disputed “consent forms,” raising fresh questions about a brand built on telling the truth.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle is under renewed scrutiny after a series of lifestyle posts from her As Ever brand prompted widespread criticism online. Viewers mocked her “festive breakfast spread” video, questioned why Kardashian party photos featuring the Sussexes were deleted, and debated whether Meghan is leaning on celebrity allies to bolster her brand. A viral unboxing video also alleged that an As Ever candle arrived without a wick, sparking further ridicule. Analysts say her recent fashion choices signal a deliberate rebranding as she continues promoting As Ever.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

King Charles has personally approved Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie's return to royal duties — and Prince William is said to be furious. #ShuterScoop reports the Prince of Wales warned it was “too soon” and that “the Yorks are poison with the public,” but Charles insists “the family needs to heal in public.” Royal Insider Deep Crown tells Palace Intrigue the tension isn't about the sisters themselves but the King's “tone-deaf timing.” Meanwhile, Express columnist Chris Riches argues Beatrice and Eugenie should lose their HRH titles altogether, unable to escape “the festering link” to Andrew and Fergie's scandals.The episode also revisits Sarah Ferguson's long-forgotten plagiarism accusation and Andrew's total fall from grace — from pitch decks to pariah status — while GB News notes Beatrice's quiet rebrand as “Beatrice York” might be the smartest move the family's made all year.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

From Buckingham Palace to the ballroom — Prince William sends sparkly wishes to Robert Irwin on Dancing with the Stars, proving even heirs to the throne love a little glitter. Queen Camilla hosts Sex and the City's Sarah Jessica Parker for the Booker Prize bash, then surprises everyone by soundtracking it with a Taylor Swift song. Sophie Winkleman calls royal life “total hell,” Meghan Markle's Montecito pop-up gets accused of selling unlicensed wine (spoiler: it was water), and Swift herself is reportedly plotting a lifestyle brand to outshine Meghan's As Ever.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Not even Oprah's magic touch could save Meghan Markle's $42 jam — sales remain flat despite a “Favorite Things” shoutout. As Meghan returns to acting, critics call her cameo “a vanity project,” while Harry played personal security at Kris Jenner's Bond-themed birthday. One columnist calls Jenner “the mother of everything wrong with planet Earth,” and another says Harry looks like a man realizing he traded the army for aisle six at Erewhon.Meanwhile, Mike Tindall says he's ready to join The Traitors — because apparently everyone royal is auditioning for reality TV now.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

An ITV investigation reveals a former Buckingham Palace warden secretly moonlighted as a neo-Nazi propagandist — proving once again that nothing good happens when “royal service” meets “far-right forum.” King Charles, meanwhile, embraced a 105-year-old WWII veteran who fought the original Nazis, reminding Britain what actual courage looks like. The New York Times wonders if the monarchy itself is running out of time, while Prince Harry's phone-hacking case collapses after a key witness claims his testimony was forged. Even by royal standards, that's one chaotic news cycle.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Bombshell allegations emerge that Queen Elizabeth knew Andrew brought prostitutes to Buckingham Palace for years but did nothing—as a Church of England vicar questions if she had a "blind spot" for her favorite son. Andrew spends his final Royal Lodge days "ranting to himself" while Sarah Ferguson drowns her fears in a purpose-built bar called The Doghouse, talking about "dark forces" targeting them. The disgraced royal must now bow to his own daughters and faces demands from Congress while making outrageous staffing demands before his Sandringham exile. Sarah reportedly considers selling Diana's private letters as a "secret weapon." Meanwhile, Poppygate erupts as Meghan attends a Kardashian party without a remembrance poppy while Harry wears one, sparking fury. William reveals Charles denied his request to scale back duties during "the hardest year" and feels betrayed by the Beckham knighthood timing that stole his Earthshot thunder. Plus: the floodgates open as palace staff come forward, Hollywood declares the Sussexes "hopeless," and Kate gets BBC name controversy at Remembrance service.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Tessa Dunlop hails the Princess of Wales as “the huntress” — poised, deliberate, and untouchable — while reports reveal her new meditation practice and William's rare burst of humor inside Windsor Castle. Meanwhile, Meghan's old fashion drama returns, from that infamous Tonga tag to claims she borrowed designer looks under royal protocol. Add a monogrammed “D.S.” travel bag in D.C., and it's clear both duchesses are still playing very different games.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

A former royal chef calls Prince Andrew “demanding” and “arrogant,” revealing tales of midnight TV calls, golf-ball retrievals, and butlers summoned just to open curtains. Meanwhile, biographer Andrew Lownie says Sarah Ferguson dined nightly like a Tudor monarch, complete with beef, lamb, and chicken fit for Henry VIII. Elsewhere, King Charles earns praise as the royals' most adventurous eater, a butler hints Christmas could move back to Windsor, and Meghan's “boiled water recipe” sparks fresh ridicule online. Plus, Norway's future queen studies Down Under — and handles the paparazzi better than most Windsors ever did.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

On Saturday we'll be sharing epsiodes of Crown and Controvery's first season.  You can listen to the rest of Seaosn 1 and Season 2 in the Crown and Controversy feed AND you may also like Crown and Controversy: Norway.Kate's middle-class family finds themselves thrust into an unprecedented position as the future in-laws of a king. Carole and Michael Middleton navigate the complex waters of royal connections while facing scrutiny from traditional aristocrats. The Queen makes welcoming gestures that surprise palace conservatives, while Kate's siblings Pippa and James face sudden public attention. As two very different families prepare to unite through marriage, the monarchy begins a subtle but significant transformation.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Before Jeffrey Epstein, before the BBC interview, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor's reputation for royal chaos began with a moat and a Meat Loaf. Author Andrew Lownie reveals the moment the prince tried to shove the rock legend into the water during It's a Royal Knockout—a TV fiasco so bad it made the monarchy a national punchline. Now Andrew's daughters face scrutiny of their own, with Princess Beatrice's Saudi photo op drawing fury and Tom Sykes calling King Charles “mad” for giving her royal duties. Meanwhile, oddsmakers are betting on whether Andrew or Fergie will join The Traitors, and Lownie says new witnesses keep coming forward—claiming the Duke's arrogance could soon send him fleeing the country.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Prince William reportedly tried to scale back duties during what he called the hardest year of his life, as both Kate and King Charles faced cancer diagnoses—only to be urged by his father to carry on. Now new reports say William was “hurt and angry” when Charles chose the same week as Earthshot to finally knight David Beckham, hijacking the headlines while Harry staged a quasi-royal Canada tour and Meghan chased Kardashian-adjacent fame. Deep Crown calls it three royal operations fighting for oxygen, William opens up about parenting through illness, and viewers rage at the BBC for calling the Princess of Wales “Kate Middleton” on air—wait until they find out about our podcast.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's last business venture, Pitch@Palace Global, is officially being dissolved — ending his attempt to play royal dragon in a Dragons' Den world.Meanwhile, Sarah Ferguson hides out in her private bar, “The Doghouse,” drowning stress in champagne and fear of eviction from Royal Lodge. Reports claim she's even considering selling private letters from Princess Diana to stay afloat, a move that could ignite royal fury. And in the latest twist, Buckingham Palace quietly restores Andrew's long-lost hyphen, confirming his surname is once again Mountbatten-Windsor — or as some might say, Mountbatten-Dash-Disaster.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Meghan Markle is under fire after turning up to Kris Jenner's James Bond–themed birthday bash without a poppy on her dress while Harry wore his proudly on his lapel. Royal insiders are calling it “her latest act of royal revenge,” commentators are furious, GB News voices are rushing to defend the couple, and somewhere in the middle Harry is homesick and writing heartfelt Remembrance essays about England. Then the photo of Meghan mysteriously disappears from Kim Kardashian's Instagram, and critics line up to mock what is likely the final, poorly performing instalment of With Love, Meghan on Netflix.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Andrew Mountbatten Windsor's royal downfall just got worse—he's now outranked by Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie and may soon need a hyphen to regain his dignity. As Palace aides debate whether to reattach the “Mountbatten-Windsor” dash, insiders say Christmas plans are in chaos, Anne is cracking jokes in Australia, and Ghislaine Maxwell is allegedly getting VIP treatment in prison.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Because nothing says “peace on earth” like perfect timing, Meghan Markle's new Netflix holiday special With Love, Meghan premieres December 3—the very same day King Charles and Queen Camilla host the President of Germany for a royal state visit. The Duchess promises candles, ribbons, and “advanced gift wrapping,” while the rest of the family will be a bit busy running a country.All this overshadowed Catherine's big day out.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

A bombshell new account alleges Andrew Mountbatten Windsor brought prostitutes into Buckingham Palace for years while staff who complained were warned to keep quiet, with royal biographer Andrew Lownie claiming even the late Queen knew and nothing was done. As Deep Crown dissects how the system really works, Andrew digs in over his eviction from Royal Lodge, demanding staff, space and financial guarantees that William is unlikely to honour. Add in a congressional summons he is said to be terrified of, a panicking Sarah Ferguson, a glitchy royal website still calling him The Duke of York, and towns wrestling with street names that suddenly feel toxic, and it is clear the Andrew problem is nowhere near solved.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

On Remembrance Day, the King, William and Kate lead solemn tributes at the Cenotaph and the National Memorial Arboretum while social media lights up over Harry and Meghan arriving at Kris Jenner's Bond themed bash. Harry turns up in a tux with a poppy on his lapel, Meghan skips the poppy and gets roasted for it, then Harry pops up in a video message to veterans from Montecito. Commentators say the Sussexes are perfecting a half in, half out royal routine as Kate fronts the official ceremonies and fan favourite Lieutenant Colonel Jonny "Major Eye Candy" Thompson quietly steals the show in uniform.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Palace Intrigue delivers the most disturbing royal collapse yet as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor spends his final Royal Lodge days "padding around and ranting and muttering" to himself while Sarah Ferguson takes refuge in a secret bar called "The Doghouse" behind the mansion, confiding fears about being "targeted" due to Epstein links. Insiders reveal the separated couple sleep "at different ends of the thirty-room home" and only meet at mealtimes for "intense conversations" about their uncertain futures.Fergie has become "massively on edge," warning staff about "dark forces potentially targeting him" and leaning on loyal employees to "stay late to keep her company" as she drowns her fears in The Doghouse. Meanwhile, Church of England vicar drops bombshell questioning if Queen Elizabeth was "ignorant" of Andrew's alleged misconduct or had a "blind spot" toward her "favourite child," demanding equal scrutiny of the late monarch's inaction. Sources reveal Andrew's "arrogance finally broken" by title stripping as Beatrice and Eugenie remain "extremely worried" about their mother's paranoia. Plus, the corgis Sandy and Muick will split time between households as the only "innocent parties in this sordid mess."Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Prince Harry fuels talk of a UK comeback after calling America his “current” home, just as Hollywood insiders say the Sussex act has gone stale. Netflix is backing away, Meghan's $42 jam is being roasted as “overpriced,” and even palace aides hint William could one day strip Harry's title. But amid the chaos, Oprah Winfrey comes to the rescue, featuring Meghan's marmalade on her Favorite Things list and reminding Montecito she still picks her neighbors carefully.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Kate emerges as Andrew's true nemesis as sources reveal his jealousy drove William's zero-tolerance policy. The disgraced royal faces a choice between Abu Dhabi's gilded cage and Sandringham's windswept isolation—where he'll finally learn to cook. William attempts a Rio reset with beach volleyball and DiCaprio, but Harry crashes coverage from Toronto. Meghan returns to acting and deploys the royal cypher to sell candles. Plus: Beckham gets knighted, Andrew's 1984 "Twit of the Year" paint gun disaster, and why Ghislaine Maxwell is now called "Mary Poppins" in prison.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Title: Meghan's Taylor Swift Gambit Stalls; Sussex Scrutiny Rises—and William's Hug Goes ViralDescription: Reports say Meghan's overtures toward Taylor Swift aren't landing, as revived claims about her 2016 Rwanda trip and fresh commentary argue the Sussexes face growing institutional pushback. We track William's Brazil “hug” photos undercutting a long-repeated narrative, a Lisburn plaque dilemma over Andrew's old title, and renewed debate over what to call “Mr Mountbatten Windsor.”Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.