Podcasts about bbc newsnight

In December 2010, Prince Andrew was photographed taking a casual stroll through New York's Central Park alongside Jeffrey Epstein—just days after Epstein had completed a 13-month jail sentence for soliciting sex from a minor. The image, captured by a paparazzo and later published globally, showed the Duke of York walking shoulder-to-shoulder with a convicted sex offender, deep in conversation. The timing of the meeting and the relaxed nature of their interaction sent shockwaves through Buckingham Palace and ignited a public firestorm, as it contradicted any attempt to downplay the depth of Andrew's relationship with Epstein. Far from a mere social encounter, this post-prison rendezvous strongly implied that Andrew maintained ties with Epstein even after his crimes were widely known.The photograph became a defining symbol of the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, undercutting any narrative that he had distanced himself from Epstein after the latter's conviction. The optics were damning: a senior member of the British royal family publicly associating with a man now globally recognized as a serial predator. What made it even more damaging was that the meeting wasn't a brief, unavoidable encounter—it reportedly took place over several days, during a stay at Epstein's $77 million Manhattan townhouse. That visit, combined with the Central Park stroll, cemented suspicions that Andrew either underestimated the gravity of Epstein's crimes or simply didn't care, both of which would later contribute to his disastrous BBC Newsnight interview and eventual withdrawal from royal duties.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/royals/jeffrey-epstein-wanted-park-pic-28051494Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

A British immigrant backed by President Trump is running to be the next governor of California. Once a senior advisor to former prime minister David Cameron, Steve Hilton has since been on a journey – swapping Downing Street for Silicon Valley.Having made his home in the US, Hilton is now running to become California's Republican governor on a platform of cutting taxes and regulation. We speak to Nicholas Watt, political editor of BBC Newsnight, who has known Hilton since his days advising Cameron.Producers: Viv Jones and Aron KellerMix: Travis EvansVideo producer: Matt PintusExecutive producer: James ShieldSenior news editor: China CollinsPhoto: California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton. Credit: Reuters /Mike BlakeAudio for this episode was updated on 9th June 2026 to clarify Steve Hilton's views on Brexit.

The Prince Andrew interview on BBC Newsnight came about after Buckingham Palace sought to clear his name amid growing scrutiny over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The idea was first pitched when Prince Andrew's then-private secretary, Amanda Thirsk, was in discussions with BBC journalist Emily Maitlis and Newsnight editor Esme Wren about a possible interview. Initially, the palace wanted to use the interview to refute allegations that Prince Andrew had sexually abused Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked to him by Epstein when she was 17. Thirsk and Andrew saw it as an opportunity to publicly address the controversy, believing it would help him regain credibility. The interview was arranged through direct negotiations between Thirsk and the Newsnight team, with Prince Andrew ultimately agreeing to the sit-down, which was filmed inside Buckingham Palace in November 2019.However, the interview turned into a public relations disaster for Prince Andrew. Instead of clearing his name, his lack of remorse, bizarre explanations, and contradictions only fueled greater criticism. He infamously claimed he could not have been with Giuffre on the alleged night because he was at Pizza Express in Woking and insisted he could not sweat due to a medical condition. The broadcast led to intense backlash, forcing Andrew to step back from royal duties days later. BBC journalist Sam McAlister, who negotiated the interview, later revealed that Andrew and his team failed to anticipate how damning his answers would sound, leading to what is now regarded as one of the most disastrous royal interviews in history.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In late 2019, Prince Andrew sat down for his now-infamous BBC Newsnight interview, claiming that he would “meet the allegations head-on” concerning his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and the accusations made by Virginia Giuffre. He insisted that he had “no recollection of ever meeting” Giuffre, denied any sexual contact with her, and even offered an alibi involving a family trip to Pizza Express in Woking. The Duke portrayed his relationship with Epstein as one of poor judgment rather than complicity, saying he only stayed friends with the disgraced financier to sever ties “honorably.” His insistence that the association had been “very useful” for business and social connections further fueled public outrage, painting him as detached and tone-deaf in the face of serious allegations.The fallout was swift and brutal. What Andrew described as an attempt to clear his name became a PR catastrophe that effectively ended his public life. The interview was condemned for his lack of remorse, his robotic demeanor, and his failure to express sympathy for Epstein's victims. Within days, major institutions and charities cut ties with him, and Buckingham Palace announced that he would be stepping down from royal duties indefinitely. His promise to cooperate with U.S. investigators later proved hollow, as American prosecutors repeatedly complained that he had not made himself available for questioning. The man who vowed to “meet it head-on” instead retreated into silence, leaving his credibility — and his legacy — in tatters.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

In late 2019, Prince Andrew sat down for his now-infamous BBC Newsnight interview, claiming that he would “meet the allegations head-on” concerning his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and the accusations made by Virginia Giuffre. He insisted that he had “no recollection of ever meeting” Giuffre, denied any sexual contact with her, and even offered an alibi involving a family trip to Pizza Express in Woking. The Duke portrayed his relationship with Epstein as one of poor judgment rather than complicity, saying he only stayed friends with the disgraced financier to sever ties “honorably.” His insistence that the association had been “very useful” for business and social connections further fueled public outrage, painting him as detached and tone-deaf in the face of serious allegations.The fallout was swift and brutal. What Andrew described as an attempt to clear his name became a PR catastrophe that effectively ended his public life. The interview was condemned for his lack of remorse, his robotic demeanor, and his failure to express sympathy for Epstein's victims. Within days, major institutions and charities cut ties with him, and Buckingham Palace announced that he would be stepping down from royal duties indefinitely. His promise to cooperate with U.S. investigators later proved hollow, as American prosecutors repeatedly complained that he had not made himself available for questioning. The man who vowed to “meet it head-on” instead retreated into silence, leaving his credibility — and his legacy — in tatters.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Prince Andrew saw his standing within the royal family collapse dramatically in the aftermath of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and one of the clearest public signs of that fall came when he was quietly pushed aside from major royal ceremonies tied to the Order of the Garter. After years of mounting public outrage over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and the disastrous fallout from his BBC Newsnight interview, Andrew increasingly became viewed as a liability to the monarchy itself. Reports surrounding Garter Day celebrations made it clear that senior royals and palace officials were deeply concerned about the optics of allowing Andrew to appear prominently alongside working members of the royal family during one of the monarchy's most symbolic public events. The situation became so toxic that even ceremonial traditions like the ringing of bells and public processions became politically sensitive, with concerns that Andrew's presence would overshadow the institution and reignite public anger about Epstein and the unanswered questions surrounding Andrew's relationship with him.The decision to sideline Andrew from portions of the celebrations was widely interpreted as an effort by the palace to create distance between the disgraced prince and the rest of the royal family. While palace statements often framed the moves in careful diplomatic language, the reality was difficult to ignore: Andrew had become radioactive in public life. Critics argued that the monarchy spent years protecting him before finally realizing the Epstein scandal had permanently damaged his public image beyond repair. Once a senior royal with military honors, international influence, and a central role in royal ceremonies, Andrew was reduced to an embarrassing presence whose attendance at public events risked drowning out everything else. The exclusion from Garter Day festivities became symbolic of his broader exile from royal life — a visible reminder that the Epstein scandal did not merely tarnish Andrew's reputation, but fundamentally altered his place inside the monarchy itself.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew saw his standing within the royal family collapse dramatically in the aftermath of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and one of the clearest public signs of that fall came when he was quietly pushed aside from major royal ceremonies tied to the Order of the Garter. After years of mounting public outrage over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and the disastrous fallout from his BBC Newsnight interview, Andrew increasingly became viewed as a liability to the monarchy itself. Reports surrounding Garter Day celebrations made it clear that senior royals and palace officials were deeply concerned about the optics of allowing Andrew to appear prominently alongside working members of the royal family during one of the monarchy's most symbolic public events. The situation became so toxic that even ceremonial traditions like the ringing of bells and public processions became politically sensitive, with concerns that Andrew's presence would overshadow the institution and reignite public anger about Epstein and the unanswered questions surrounding Andrew's relationship with him.The decision to sideline Andrew from portions of the celebrations was widely interpreted as an effort by the palace to create distance between the disgraced prince and the rest of the royal family. While palace statements often framed the moves in careful diplomatic language, the reality was difficult to ignore: Andrew had become radioactive in public life. Critics argued that the monarchy spent years protecting him before finally realizing the Epstein scandal had permanently damaged his public image beyond repair. Once a senior royal with military honors, international influence, and a central role in royal ceremonies, Andrew was reduced to an embarrassing presence whose attendance at public events risked drowning out everything else. The exclusion from Garter Day festivities became symbolic of his broader exile from royal life — a visible reminder that the Epstein scandal did not merely tarnish Andrew's reputation, but fundamentally altered his place inside the monarchy itself.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Prince Andrew became internationally associated with scandal because of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but controversy surrounding the Duke of York extended far beyond Epstein alone. His friendship with Epstein and later with Ghislaine Maxwell triggered years of scrutiny, particularly after allegations emerged from Virginia Giuffre that she was trafficked to Andrew as a teenager. Andrew repeatedly denied the allegations, but public pressure intensified following his disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where he attempted to explain his continued friendship with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. The fallout ultimately forced Andrew to step back from public royal duties, lose military affiliations and royal patronages, and later settle Giuffre's civil lawsuit out of court without admitting liability. Critics argued the Epstein scandal shattered the carefully managed public image of the monarchy and exposed how elite status and royal connections appeared to insulate powerful figures from meaningful scrutiny for years.But Epstein was not the only controversy that dragged Andrew into damaging headlines. In recent years, Andrew also became embroiled in concerns surrounding an alleged Chinese intelligence-linked businessman known publicly as Yang Tengbo, who reportedly cultivated close relationships with influential British figures and was later accused by UK authorities of acting on behalf of the Chinese state. Reports indicated Andrew maintained contact with the businessman even as intelligence concerns escalated, raising uncomfortable questions about judgment and access around the royal family. Separately, Andrew's name surfaced in connection with Turkish-born fraudster Selman Turk, who was accused in civil proceedings of orchestrating a massive financial fraud involving millions of dollars. Court filings alleged that money connected to Turk was used in part to help support Andrew's lifestyle and business initiatives after his royal standing collapsed following the Epstein scandal. Together, the controversies reinforced the perception that Andrew repeatedly surrounded himself with wealthy, questionable, and politically sensitive figures long after earlier scandals should have prompted greater caution.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew saw his standing within the royal family collapse dramatically in the aftermath of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and one of the clearest public signs of that fall came when he was quietly pushed aside from major royal ceremonies tied to the Order of the Garter. After years of mounting public outrage over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and the disastrous fallout from his BBC Newsnight interview, Andrew increasingly became viewed as a liability to the monarchy itself. Reports surrounding Garter Day celebrations made it clear that senior royals and palace officials were deeply concerned about the optics of allowing Andrew to appear prominently alongside working members of the royal family during one of the monarchy's most symbolic public events. The situation became so toxic that even ceremonial traditions like the ringing of bells and public processions became politically sensitive, with concerns that Andrew's presence would overshadow the institution and reignite public anger about Epstein and the unanswered questions surrounding Andrew's relationship with him.The decision to sideline Andrew from portions of the celebrations was widely interpreted as an effort by the palace to create distance between the disgraced prince and the rest of the royal family. While palace statements often framed the moves in careful diplomatic language, the reality was difficult to ignore: Andrew had become radioactive in public life. Critics argued that the monarchy spent years protecting him before finally realizing the Epstein scandal had permanently damaged his public image beyond repair. Once a senior royal with military honors, international influence, and a central role in royal ceremonies, Andrew was reduced to an embarrassing presence whose attendance at public events risked drowning out everything else. The exclusion from Garter Day festivities became symbolic of his broader exile from royal life — a visible reminder that the Epstein scandal did not merely tarnish Andrew's reputation, but fundamentally altered his place inside the monarchy itself.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Prince Andrew became internationally associated with scandal because of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but controversy surrounding the Duke of York extended far beyond Epstein alone. His friendship with Epstein and later with Ghislaine Maxwell triggered years of scrutiny, particularly after allegations emerged from Virginia Giuffre that she was trafficked to Andrew as a teenager. Andrew repeatedly denied the allegations, but public pressure intensified following his disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where he attempted to explain his continued friendship with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. The fallout ultimately forced Andrew to step back from public royal duties, lose military affiliations and royal patronages, and later settle Giuffre's civil lawsuit out of court without admitting liability. Critics argued the Epstein scandal shattered the carefully managed public image of the monarchy and exposed how elite status and royal connections appeared to insulate powerful figures from meaningful scrutiny for years.But Epstein was not the only controversy that dragged Andrew into damaging headlines. In recent years, Andrew also became embroiled in concerns surrounding an alleged Chinese intelligence-linked businessman known publicly as Yang Tengbo, who reportedly cultivated close relationships with influential British figures and was later accused by UK authorities of acting on behalf of the Chinese state. Reports indicated Andrew maintained contact with the businessman even as intelligence concerns escalated, raising uncomfortable questions about judgment and access around the royal family. Separately, Andrew's name surfaced in connection with Turkish-born fraudster Selman Turk, who was accused in civil proceedings of orchestrating a massive financial fraud involving millions of dollars. Court filings alleged that money connected to Turk was used in part to help support Andrew's lifestyle and business initiatives after his royal standing collapsed following the Epstein scandal. Together, the controversies reinforced the perception that Andrew repeatedly surrounded himself with wealthy, questionable, and politically sensitive figures long after earlier scandals should have prompted greater caution.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Prince Andrew became internationally associated with scandal because of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but controversy surrounding the Duke of York extended far beyond Epstein alone. His friendship with Epstein and later with Ghislaine Maxwell triggered years of scrutiny, particularly after allegations emerged from Virginia Giuffre that she was trafficked to Andrew as a teenager. Andrew repeatedly denied the allegations, but public pressure intensified following his disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where he attempted to explain his continued friendship with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. The fallout ultimately forced Andrew to step back from public royal duties, lose military affiliations and royal patronages, and later settle Giuffre's civil lawsuit out of court without admitting liability. Critics argued the Epstein scandal shattered the carefully managed public image of the monarchy and exposed how elite status and royal connections appeared to insulate powerful figures from meaningful scrutiny for years.But Epstein was not the only controversy that dragged Andrew into damaging headlines. In recent years, Andrew also became embroiled in concerns surrounding an alleged Chinese intelligence-linked businessman known publicly as Yang Tengbo, who reportedly cultivated close relationships with influential British figures and was later accused by UK authorities of acting on behalf of the Chinese state. Reports indicated Andrew maintained contact with the businessman even as intelligence concerns escalated, raising uncomfortable questions about judgment and access around the royal family. Separately, Andrew's name surfaced in connection with Turkish-born fraudster Selman Turk, who was accused in civil proceedings of orchestrating a massive financial fraud involving millions of dollars. Court filings alleged that money connected to Turk was used in part to help support Andrew's lifestyle and business initiatives after his royal standing collapsed following the Epstein scandal. Together, the controversies reinforced the perception that Andrew repeatedly surrounded himself with wealthy, questionable, and politically sensitive figures long after earlier scandals should have prompted greater caution.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

The handling of Queen Elizabeth II in the face of the Epstein scandal surrounding Prince Andrew has long been viewed as a calculated effort to contain damage rather than confront it head-on. From the outset, the palace moved to shield Andrew from immediate scrutiny—granting him continued royal appearances, maintaining his status, and allowing him to operate under the protection of the institution even as allegations mounted publicly. The now-infamous BBC Newsnight interview, widely seen as disastrous, was itself reportedly approved within palace circles, reflecting a strategy that underestimated the scale of the crisis. Behind the scenes, the monarchy's priority appeared to be preservation—of reputation, of hierarchy, and of control over the narrative—rather than transparency or accountability.Even after Andrew was forced to step back from public duties, the measures taken suggested containment, not reckoning. Financial support for his legal settlement, continued residence within royal properties, and the absence of any meaningful institutional reckoning reinforced the perception that the full weight of the monarchy had been used to insulate him. Critics argue that this approach didn't just protect Andrew—it damaged the credibility of the Crown itself, sending a message that proximity to power could soften consequences. Rather than drawing a clear line between the monarchy and the scandal, the prolonged effort to manage and minimize the fallout kept the institution tethered to it, turning what could have been a decisive break into an ongoing reputational drag.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

The handling of Queen Elizabeth II in the face of the Epstein scandal surrounding Prince Andrew has long been viewed as a calculated effort to contain damage rather than confront it head-on. From the outset, the palace moved to shield Andrew from immediate scrutiny—granting him continued royal appearances, maintaining his status, and allowing him to operate under the protection of the institution even as allegations mounted publicly. The now-infamous BBC Newsnight interview, widely seen as disastrous, was itself reportedly approved within palace circles, reflecting a strategy that underestimated the scale of the crisis. Behind the scenes, the monarchy's priority appeared to be preservation—of reputation, of hierarchy, and of control over the narrative—rather than transparency or accountability.Even after Andrew was forced to step back from public duties, the measures taken suggested containment, not reckoning. Financial support for his legal settlement, continued residence within royal properties, and the absence of any meaningful institutional reckoning reinforced the perception that the full weight of the monarchy had been used to insulate him. Critics argue that this approach didn't just protect Andrew—it damaged the credibility of the Crown itself, sending a message that proximity to power could soften consequences. Rather than drawing a clear line between the monarchy and the scandal, the prolonged effort to manage and minimize the fallout kept the institution tethered to it, turning what could have been a decisive break into an ongoing reputational drag.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Prince Andrew's charity, Pitch@Palace, came under investigation after reports surfaced that it made £355,000 in payments to his former private secretary, Amanda Thirsk, following her resignation amid the fallout from his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. The payments, which occurred in 2019 and 2020, raised questions about how the charity's funds were being used and whether they were appropriate under charity law. Regulators at the U.K. Charity Commission launched an inquiry into whether Pitch@Palace and its connected entities had been properly managing finances and acting in the public interest. The investigation came as the Duke of York faced widespread backlash for his disastrous BBC Newsnight interview, where he failed to show remorse for his association with Epstein, prompting many corporate sponsors and backers to sever ties with his charitable ventures.Amanda Thirsk, who was instrumental in managing Prince Andrew's business and philanthropic activities, left her role following the Newsnight interview but soon reappeared on the payroll through Pitch@Palace Global Ltd — a private company linked to the charity. Critics questioned whether charity money had been diverted to support Andrew's personal circle amid reputational damage from the Epstein scandal. The Charity Commission stated it was assessing the charity's operations to ensure compliance with governance rules and transparency standards. The controversy added to growing public and institutional scrutiny of Prince Andrew's finances and his continued role in public life as his connections to Epstein continued to erode what remained of his royal standing.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Netflix's Scoop, a high-profile dramatic film about Prince Andrew's disastrous BBC Newsnight interview — the 2019 broadcast in which he attempted to explain his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — was announced and released to significant attention as it revisits a moment that helped derail his public life. The film, based on Sam McAlister's memoir Scoops and starring roles by Gillian Anderson, Billie Piper, and Rufus Sewell, retells how BBC producers secured the interview and how that event unfolded on camera, showing the palace negotiations and Andrew's statements that were widely panned and mocked. Scoop dropped on Netflix on April 5, 2024 and has since generated discussion not just as entertainment but as a cultural recounting of one of the most consequential media moments involving the British royal family in recent memory.While this film drew interest from audiences and critics intrigued by the behind-the-scenes story of a globally infamous interview, Buckingham Palace did not publicly endorse or celebrate the movie — and its official reactions have been minimal to non-committal. When asked if the palace had reached out to producers or commented on the dramatization, Sam McAlister jokingly noted she hadn't heard from the institution, implying there was no formal engagement from royal spokespeople about the project. The lack of an official positive palace response — combined with the enduring sensitivity around Andrew's role in the Epstein scandal — suggests the establishment prefers to distance itself from dramatizations that revisit and potentially amplify a deeply embarrassing episode for the monarchy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Netflix's Scoop, a high-profile dramatic film about Prince Andrew's disastrous BBC Newsnight interview — the 2019 broadcast in which he attempted to explain his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — was announced and released to significant attention as it revisits a moment that helped derail his public life. The film, based on Sam McAlister's memoir Scoops and starring roles by Gillian Anderson, Billie Piper, and Rufus Sewell, retells how BBC producers secured the interview and how that event unfolded on camera, showing the palace negotiations and Andrew's statements that were widely panned and mocked. Scoop dropped on Netflix on April 5, 2024 and has since generated discussion not just as entertainment but as a cultural recounting of one of the most consequential media moments involving the British royal family in recent memory.While this film drew interest from audiences and critics intrigued by the behind-the-scenes story of a globally infamous interview, Buckingham Palace did not publicly endorse or celebrate the movie — and its official reactions have been minimal to non-committal. When asked if the palace had reached out to producers or commented on the dramatization, Sam McAlister jokingly noted she hadn't heard from the institution, implying there was no formal engagement from royal spokespeople about the project. The lack of an official positive palace response — combined with the enduring sensitivity around Andrew's role in the Epstein scandal — suggests the establishment prefers to distance itself from dramatizations that revisit and potentially amplify a deeply embarrassing episode for the monarchy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

“The changing date was the war in Ukraine in February 2022, and then probably the new American administration. So we don't know where the world is going to land. We live a little bit in a world of disorder right now.”Matt Chorley speaks to Alexander Stubb, President of Finland about shifting global priorities and allegiances.President Stubb is known for his good relationship with his American counterpart Donald Trump, forged in part over their shared love of golf. But in spite of this he believes it is right that Nato, as a defensive alliance, should stay out of the war in Iran. This, he says, is the US and Israel's conflict.Thank you to the BBC Newsnight team for its help in making this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and the Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko. You can listen on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 0800 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out three times a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts. Presenter: Matt Chorley Producers: Jonathan Aspinwall, Adam Bowen, Katherine Hodgson, Jack Hunter and Osman Iqbal Editor: Justine Lang and Damon RoseGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Alexander Stubb Credit: Jason Alden/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Prince Andrew's 2019 interview with BBC Newsnight was intended to address the mounting controversy surrounding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but it quickly became one of the most disastrous public relations moments in modern royal history. During the interview with Emily Maitlis, Andrew attempted to explain why he had remained friends with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Rather than distancing himself from the disgraced financier, Andrew described the relationship as a mistake but appeared to minimize the seriousness of Epstein's crimes. The interview also addressed allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, which Andrew categorically denied. Instead of quelling public concern, the interview drew widespread criticism for what many viewed as evasive answers, a lack of empathy toward Epstein's victims, and explanations that strained credibility.Several specific claims made by Andrew during the interview intensified the backlash. He asserted he had no memory of ever meeting Giuffre despite photographic evidence showing them together and suggested the photo might have been fabricated. He also offered unusual explanations—such as saying a medical condition prevented him from sweating—to challenge Giuffre's account of events. The tone of the interview, along with Andrew's continued defense of his decision to visit Epstein after the financier's conviction, was widely viewed as tone-deaf and damaging. The fallout was immediate: within days, Andrew stepped back from all public royal duties amid growing pressure from the public, media, and political figures. What had been intended as a chance to repair his reputation instead became a defining moment that cemented the perception that the scandal surrounding Epstein had permanently engulfed him.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew's 2019 interview with BBC Newsnight was intended to address the mounting controversy surrounding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but it quickly became one of the most disastrous public relations moments in modern royal history. During the interview with Emily Maitlis, Andrew attempted to explain why he had remained friends with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Rather than distancing himself from the disgraced financier, Andrew described the relationship as a mistake but appeared to minimize the seriousness of Epstein's crimes. The interview also addressed allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, which Andrew categorically denied. Instead of quelling public concern, the interview drew widespread criticism for what many viewed as evasive answers, a lack of empathy toward Epstein's victims, and explanations that strained credibility.Several specific claims made by Andrew during the interview intensified the backlash. He asserted he had no memory of ever meeting Giuffre despite photographic evidence showing them together and suggested the photo might have been fabricated. He also offered unusual explanations—such as saying a medical condition prevented him from sweating—to challenge Giuffre's account of events. The tone of the interview, along with Andrew's continued defense of his decision to visit Epstein after the financier's conviction, was widely viewed as tone-deaf and damaging. The fallout was immediate: within days, Andrew stepped back from all public royal duties amid growing pressure from the public, media, and political figures. What had been intended as a chance to repair his reputation instead became a defining moment that cemented the perception that the scandal surrounding Epstein had permanently engulfed him.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Prince Andrew's 2019 interview with BBC Newsnight was intended to address the mounting controversy surrounding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, but it quickly became one of the most disastrous public relations moments in modern royal history. During the interview with Emily Maitlis, Andrew attempted to explain why he had remained friends with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Rather than distancing himself from the disgraced financier, Andrew described the relationship as a mistake but appeared to minimize the seriousness of Epstein's crimes. The interview also addressed allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, which Andrew categorically denied. Instead of quelling public concern, the interview drew widespread criticism for what many viewed as evasive answers, a lack of empathy toward Epstein's victims, and explanations that strained credibility.Several specific claims made by Andrew during the interview intensified the backlash. He asserted he had no memory of ever meeting Giuffre despite photographic evidence showing them together and suggested the photo might have been fabricated. He also offered unusual explanations—such as saying a medical condition prevented him from sweating—to challenge Giuffre's account of events. The tone of the interview, along with Andrew's continued defense of his decision to visit Epstein after the financier's conviction, was widely viewed as tone-deaf and damaging. The fallout was immediate: within days, Andrew stepped back from all public royal duties amid growing pressure from the public, media, and political figures. What had been intended as a chance to repair his reputation instead became a defining moment that cemented the perception that the scandal surrounding Epstein had permanently engulfed him.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In his now-infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, Prince Andrew claimed he was unable to sweat at the time Virginia Giuffre alleged they danced together at a London nightclub in 2001. He attributed this to a “peculiar medical condition” caused by “an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War.” However, photographs later surfaced showing Andrew attending parties in Saint-Tropez during the early 2000s, visibly perspiring under the Mediterranean sun. These images directly undercut his bizarre defense and reignited skepticism about his credibility—especially as they appeared to date from the same general period when he claimed to be physiologically incapable of sweating.In January 2022, Andrew's legal team sought permission to depose Giuffre's husband Robert Giuffre and her psychologist Dr Judith Lightfoot by video link in Australia. Their aim was to probe two key areas: first, whether Giuffre might “suffer from false memories,” in which context they requested details of any medications prescribed by Lightfoot; and second, the nature of Robert Giuffre's relationship with his wife and their shared finances, including how and when he met Giuffre.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

In his now-infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, Prince Andrew claimed he was unable to sweat at the time Virginia Giuffre alleged they danced together at a London nightclub in 2001. He attributed this to a “peculiar medical condition” caused by “an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War.” However, photographs later surfaced showing Andrew attending parties in Saint-Tropez during the early 2000s, visibly perspiring under the Mediterranean sun. These images directly undercut his bizarre defense and reignited skepticism about his credibility—especially as they appeared to date from the same general period when he claimed to be physiologically incapable of sweating.In January 2022, Andrew's legal team sought permission to depose Giuffre's husband Robert Giuffre and her psychologist Dr Judith Lightfoot by video link in Australia. Their aim was to probe two key areas: first, whether Giuffre might “suffer from false memories,” in which context they requested details of any medications prescribed by Lightfoot; and second, the nature of Robert Giuffre's relationship with his wife and their shared finances, including how and when he met Giuffre.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

In his now-infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, Prince Andrew claimed he was unable to sweat at the time Virginia Giuffre alleged they danced together at a London nightclub in 2001. He attributed this to a “peculiar medical condition” caused by “an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War.” However, photographs later surfaced showing Andrew attending parties in Saint-Tropez during the early 2000s, visibly perspiring under the Mediterranean sun. These images directly undercut his bizarre defense and reignited skepticism about his credibility—especially as they appeared to date from the same general period when he claimed to be physiologically incapable of sweating.In January 2022, Andrew's legal team sought permission to depose Giuffre's husband Robert Giuffre and her psychologist Dr Judith Lightfoot by video link in Australia. Their aim was to probe two key areas: first, whether Giuffre might “suffer from false memories,” in which context they requested details of any medications prescribed by Lightfoot; and second, the nature of Robert Giuffre's relationship with his wife and their shared finances, including how and when he met Giuffre.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

In his now-infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, Prince Andrew claimed he was unable to sweat at the time Virginia Giuffre alleged they danced together at a London nightclub in 2001. He attributed this to a “peculiar medical condition” caused by “an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War.” However, photographs later surfaced showing Andrew attending parties in Saint-Tropez during the early 2000s, visibly perspiring under the Mediterranean sun. These images directly undercut his bizarre defense and reignited skepticism about his credibility—especially as they appeared to date from the same general period when he claimed to be physiologically incapable of sweating.In January 2022, Andrew's legal team sought permission to depose Giuffre's husband Robert Giuffre and her psychologist Dr Judith Lightfoot by video link in Australia. Their aim was to probe two key areas: first, whether Giuffre might “suffer from false memories,” in which context they requested details of any medications prescribed by Lightfoot; and second, the nature of Robert Giuffre's relationship with his wife and their shared finances, including how and when he met Giuffre.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Prince Andrew's long-running entanglement with Jeffrey Epstein has become one of the most destabilizing liabilities facing the British monarchy in decades, and it has landed squarely at King Charles's feet. Andrew's disastrous BBC Newsnight interview, his civil lawsuit settlement with Virginia Giuffre, and the steady drip of new allegations and disclosures have kept the scandal alive long after the palace hoped it would fade. Each new headline reopens questions about judgment, privilege, and accountability at the highest levels of royal life. Instead of quietly stepping back, Andrew repeatedly misread the public mood—clinging to Royal Lodge, resisting pressure to downsize, and appearing more focused on personal grievance than institutional damage control. For King Charles, who has worked to streamline the monarchy and restore public trust, Andrew's refusal to fully disappear from public life has been a strategic nightmare. The scandal has forced Charles into the uncomfortable position of distancing himself from his own brother in order to protect the crown.Critically, Andrew's conduct has not just embarrassed the family—it has undermined the monarchy's credibility at a time when its relevance is under scrutiny. His association with Epstein, his tone-deaf attempts at rehabilitation, and the perception that he expected preferential treatment reinforced a narrative of entitlement that clashes sharply with Charles's message of duty and modernization. Every legal development, every resurfaced photograph, every renewed call for inquiry drags the institution back into a controversy it cannot control. Andrew's actions have effectively compelled King Charles to spend political capital managing fallout rather than advancing his own agenda. In a monarchy that depends heavily on public confidence, Andrew has become less a private liability and more a constitutional headache—one that continues to test Charles's authority, judgment, and willingness to draw hard lines within his own family.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been “hung in the Louvre” after activists from Everyone Hates Elon placed a framed Reuters photograph inside the Paris museum showing him slouched in the back of a car following his release from police custody. Beneath it: “He's Sweating Now – 2026,” a nod to his 2019 BBC Newsnight interview.Commentators say the stunt reflects a broader collapse of royal deference, with the Independent calling it proof we are in a “post-royal” era of irreverence.Back in Norfolk, two fire engines briefly responded to Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate in what appears to have been a false alarm. Meanwhile, the BBC reports Andrew charged taxpayers for massage services and travel during his time as trade envoy — a detail some dismiss as trivial, others cite as emblematic.The constitutional stakes are rising. Australia has signalled support for removing Andrew from the line of succession, and new YouGov polling shows 82 percent of Britons agree. From museum walls in Paris to Commonwealth capitals, the fallout is widening — and the pressure on the monarchy is intensifying.Get episodes of Palace Intrigue by becommming a paid subscriber on Apple Podcasts. Click the button that says uninterrupted listening.  Just $5 a month, and that includes many ofther shows on the Caloroga Shark network.Royal Books:William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside StoryThe Royal Insider: My Life with the Queen, the King and Princess Diana

What happens when royalty meets reality?In this episode of Mark & Pete, we examine the ongoing reputational crisis surrounding Prince Andrew and what it means for the British monarchy in the age of scrutiny. From the infamous BBC Newsnight interview to the fallout from associations with Jeffrey Epstein, we explore how scandal, privilege, and public accountability collide at the highest levels of national symbolism.This is not tabloid gossip. It's a serious conversation about institutional trust, moral responsibility, and whether inherited authority can survive modern transparency. Can a monarchy built on continuity endure when confidence is shaken? Does stepping back from public duties resolve the issue — or simply freeze it in polite constitutional embarrassment?We also ask the deeper question: what does Scripture say about leadership, integrity, and repentance? Because crowns may be hereditary, but character never is.Expect calm commentary, a few raised eyebrows, and the sort of dry reflection that Britain specialises in when things become awkward.Topics include:Prince Andrew and the Epstein controversyThe Newsnight interview and public reactionRoyal accountability and constitutional symbolismReputation vs repentanceThe future of the modern monarchyFeaturing Mark's original poetry and Pete's biblical reflections.

Det här är berättelsen om den orädda popstjärnan med hjärtat i handen som förvandlar sina trauman till pop lika sockersöt som avgrundsmörk. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radios app. På Brit Awards upplysta scen står det brittiska stjärnskottet Lily Allen och kramar sin statyett.Hennes orangea peruk matchar den brandgula scenen och hon ler stort.– Oh, my god. I can't believe this. Året är 2010 och fyra år har gått sen Lily Allen slog igenom. Sen dess har hon gjort sig känd som en artist som aldrig ber om ursäkt och som säger exakt det hon tycker och tänker.Det har både blivit hennes framgång, och ett ok att bära. – I only wore this orange wig to make it harder for the cameramen to find me and catch my disappointed face.På Brit Awards stora scen skiner Lily som solen, men det hon inte vet är att hon snart kommer behöva genomleva sitt livs största sorg, och det kommer förändra henne för alltid.Medverkande: Tina Mehrafzoon, Sandra Beijer och Calle Lundgren.Programmet gjordes och programleddes av Siri Hill vintern 2026Producent Robin JonssonExekutiv producent Anna JohannessenSlutmix Fredrik NilssonP3 Musikdokumentär produceras av Tredje Statsmakten MediaEn viktig källa i programmet är Lily Allens självbiografi My Thoughts Exactly (2018).Ljudklippen i programmet kommer från: Brit Awards (2007, 2010), BBC:s Top of the pops (1995, 2006), BBC:s This Cultural Life (2014), SBS The Feed (2025), CBS Mornings (2025), The Big City Network (2009), BBC Newsnight (2016), The Jonathan Ross Show (2018), Architectural Digest (2023), Fresh prince in Bel Air (1990) samt Youtubekontona Holy Moly (2008), kontentby (2007), GORI dti (2010), R Bourne (2008), Lily Allen (2014), Galatea and Asis (2025), ellaknows (2025), princecwash (2025) och Olivia Lopes (2025).

As Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's legal troubles deepen, attention has shifted to his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who are said to be “in a state” following their father's arrest. Sources close to the family describe the situation as “catastrophic,” with renewed scrutiny falling on the Yorks' past lifestyle, finances and proximity to the Epstein scandal. Reports have revisited Princess Beatrice's jet-setting twenties — including a year in which she reportedly took 17 holidays while earning approximately $26,000 — raising fresh questions about who funded the lifestyle and whether her father's dealings as trade envoy played a role. Recently released documents referencing Beatrice have only intensified the spotlight.Princess Eugenie, meanwhile, was reportedly skiing in Switzerland with her family hours before the arrest and is understood not to have known what was about to unfold. The images of a relaxed Alpine lunch now sit in sharp contrast to the crisis erupting at home.Commentators are also debating what this means for the sisters' future within the monarchy. Royal analyst Richard Fitzwilliams suggests the long-term decision may ultimately fall to Prince William, who is said not to be particularly close to his York cousins and could take a harder line when he becomes king. Royal Insider Deep Crown warns that while a slimmed-down monarchy may aim for efficiency, it still requires “reliable, unimpeachable bodies” — and with each new revelation, that pool appears to shrink.A new biography by Russell Myers claims William pushed for decisive action against his uncle following the BBC Newsnight interview, describing Andrew's presence as “a stain on all the family” and warning the crisis would never fade. The book suggests tensions flared behind palace doors as William argued that protecting Andrew posed a threat to the institution's survival.Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Prince Harry launched the 2026 WellChild Awards, praising children with complex medical needs as “extraordinary,” while Meghan promoted her lifestyle brand — moves that have prompted fresh debate about timing. Sources close to Harry told People magazine he was frustrated by comparisons between himself and Andrew, insisting they were “never fair.” .Get episodes of Palace Intrigue by becommming a paid subscriber on Apple Podcasts. Click the button that says uninterrupted listening.  Just $5 a month, and that includes many ofther shows on the Caloroga Shark network.Royal Books:William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside StoryThe Royal Insider: My Life with the Queen, the King and Princess Diana

In his much-criticized 2019 BBC Newsnight interview about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew made a series of remarks and excuses that were broadly seen as implausible or tone-deaf, deepening public distrust and damaging his reputation. He denied ever having sex with Virginia Giuffre, claiming he was at a PizzaExpress in Woking with his daughter on the date she alleged, and insisted he couldn't sweat due to an “adrenaline overdose” from the Falklands War — assertions that were widely mocked and widely reported as undermining his credibility. At the time, Andrew also tried to downplay his closeness to Epstein, saying they met only occasionally and that he had ended contact in 2010; subsequent releases of emails and documents suggested continued contact beyond that date, adding to the perception that his interview responses were evasive or misleading.Behind the scenes, those involved in arranging and producing the interview later described it as a “car crash” or PR disaster that was disastrously misjudged by palace advisers and by Andrew himself. According to accounts around the broadcast, Andrew and his team initially believed the interview would help clear the air but were unprepared for the level of probing about Epstein and Giuffre. The aftermath saw a swift public backlash, damage to the monarchy's image, and Andrew stepping back from royal duties; his remarks became focal points for ridicule, and subsequent analyses and dramatizations (including in documentaries and dramatized films) have highlighted how poorly his explanations landed and how badly they aligned with available evidence.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In his much-criticized 2019 BBC Newsnight interview about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew made a series of remarks and excuses that were broadly seen as implausible or tone-deaf, deepening public distrust and damaging his reputation. He denied ever having sex with Virginia Giuffre, claiming he was at a PizzaExpress in Woking with his daughter on the date she alleged, and insisted he couldn't sweat due to an “adrenaline overdose” from the Falklands War — assertions that were widely mocked and widely reported as undermining his credibility. At the time, Andrew also tried to downplay his closeness to Epstein, saying they met only occasionally and that he had ended contact in 2010; subsequent releases of emails and documents suggested continued contact beyond that date, adding to the perception that his interview responses were evasive or misleading.Behind the scenes, those involved in arranging and producing the interview later described it as a “car crash” or PR disaster that was disastrously misjudged by palace advisers and by Andrew himself. According to accounts around the broadcast, Andrew and his team initially believed the interview would help clear the air but were unprepared for the level of probing about Epstein and Giuffre. The aftermath saw a swift public backlash, damage to the monarchy's image, and Andrew stepping back from royal duties; his remarks became focal points for ridicule, and subsequent analyses and dramatizations (including in documentaries and dramatized films) have highlighted how poorly his explanations landed and how badly they aligned with available evidence.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In an extraordinary development, King Charleshas issued a formal statement following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The King said he had learned of the news “with the deepest concern,” adding that the matter must now follow “the full, fair and proper process” and that the authorities have the Royal Family's “full and wholehearted support and co-operation.” He concluded: “The law must take its course.”Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was arrested, with searches carried out in Berkshire and Norfolk. Although officers declined to name the suspect, the Palace statement removed any doubt. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed a formal investigation has been opened, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the process. The charge — misconduct in public office — is a serious common law offence carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, though no charges have been filed and an arrest is not evidence of guilt.Buckingham Palace confirmed it was not informed in advance. Prince William and Catherine are understood to support the King's remarks. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that “nobody is above the law.” The King continued with a scheduled appearance at London Fashion Week, declining to answer questions from reporters as he maintained public duties.The arrest marks a dramatic escalation in a saga stretching back decades, from Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein to the fallout from his BBC Newsnight interview and his 2022 civil settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in 2025. Her family welcomed the arrest, calling it proof that “no one is above the law.”As investigations expand across multiple police forces and political reaction intensifies on both sides of the Atlantic, commentators warn this moment may come to define the reign of King Charles. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains in custody. No charges have been filed. The investigation is active. And as the King stated, the law must now take its course.Palace Intrigue remains on a modified publishing schedule as this story develops.Get episodes of Palace Intrigue by becommming a paid subscriber on Apple Podcasts. Click the button that says uninterrupted listening.  Just $5 a month, and that includes many ofther shows on the Caloroga Shark network.Royal Books:William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside StoryThe Royal Insider: My Life with the Queen, the King and Princess Diana

Feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice about menopause and HRT? You're not alone, and you're not imagining it.In this eye-opening conversation, journalist and author Fiona Clark (MenoWars: Why Menopause's Moment Has Gone Horribly Wrong) joins me to unpack why the menopause conversation has become so polarizing. What started as a grassroots movement of women advocating for better care has evolved into a confusing battlefield of conflicting claims, FOMO-inducing headlines, and monetized advice that leaves women more overwhelmed than empowered.Fiona brings her unique background, which includes a degree in anatomy and physiology, decades as a journalist, and her own experience navigating menopause to help us understand how we got here. We explore the "menopause wars," from the rise of influential voices making claims that science doesn't always support, to the gatekeeping accusations that emerge when medical professionals push back, to the dangerous erosion of trust in evidence-based medicine.In this episode, we talk about:How the menopause advocacy movement transformed from collegial to combativeWhy testosterone has become the latest battleground (and what happened when Fiona stopped taking it)The FOMO epidemic: dementia, heart disease, and what the research actually showsWhy "gatekeeping" accusations undermine the scientific processThe commercialization of menopause and how confusion gets monetizedWhat HRT can (and can't) do, and why cutting out the noise matters more than anythingWhy women deserve to make informed decisions about their bodies without everyone else's opinionsFiona's message is clear: it's not about being pro- or anti-HRT. It's about cutting through the noise, understanding what science actually supports, and reclaiming your right to make informed decisions about your own body without FOMO, fear, or unsolicited opinions.If you've felt confused, frustrated, or exhausted by the menopause information overload, this conversation will help you find your footing.About Fiona: Fiona is an award winning investigative journalist who spent the first 20 years of her career in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. She covered the 1991 coup in Soviet Union, the Balkans War and went on to be supervising producer of its current affairs equivalent of the BBC Newsnight. Her degree is in Sports Medicine and some 20 years ago she went into medical publishing. She has written for The Lancet and various other medical publications. For the past 8 years she has been working in the menopause space and is the co-founder  of the Menopause Research and Education Fund and the author of MenoWars - a look at the state of women's health through the lens of the current debates in menopause. Connect with Fiona:Book: MenoWars (available on Amazon and UK bookstores)Charity: Menopause Research and Education FundRelated Episodes You'll Love:Brain Health & Menopause: What Science Really SWhat did you think of this episode? Click here and let me know!

Nick Cohen talks to Mark Urban about the UK's deep defence crisisNick Cohen & Mark Urban discuss changing dynamics of the American-British alliance and its huge implications for British defence strategy.Mark Urban and Nick discuss how recent actions by Donald Trump have created uncertainty about America's role as a traditional ally, particularly regarding NATO and European security. They explored how Brexit has weakened Britain's position in Europe at a time when European cooperation is needed more than ever, and criticise the current Labour government's lack of leadership in addressing defence needs.They talk about how Britain's nuclear deterrent remains dependent on American cooperation, though Mark notes that Britain could maintain its deterrent for about 10 years even if American support was withdrawn. They also discuss how the British military has become increasingly vulnerable and underfunded, with defence spending at just 2.5% of GDP compared to 7% in 1961 when Mark was born.Mark and Nick discuss the changing dynamics of the British-American alliance, with Mark highlighting that the decline in their relative military and economic power began during World War II. They also discuss how the special relationship has evolved over time, with Mark referencing his book "The Edge" from 2015, which warned about the increasing defence spending by China and Russia and the need for European self-reliance. They agree that the current situation with Donald Trump's administration represents a significant inflection point in this long-term decline, though they acknowledge that the underlying changes have been gradual rather than sudden.Real all about it!Mark Urban was for many years a defence correspondent for BBC Newsnight and later its Diplomatic Editor. He has hosted the Crisis Room podcast @crisisroompod. He also writes for tHE Sunday Times. He's also a historian and author with books including Big Boys Rules, Rifles, TF Black, Tank War, Skripal Files, Red Devils.Mark's latest book Tank is out as a paperback later this year. Mark is also a Trustee for The Imperial War Museum @I_W_M . Mark's Susbtack is called War and Peace.Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In early September 2020, amid growing scandal and public scrutiny over his associations with Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew traveled to Balmoral Castle to hold what was described as “crisis talks” with Queen Elizabeth II. This meeting was seen as a critical moment for the royal household, as the Queen and her advisors sought to manage the fallout from mounting allegations, including accusations by Virginia Giuffre and the widely publicized BBC Newsnight interview that followed. Sources at the time characterized the trip as an urgent effort to contain reputational damage and assess Andrew's future role within the monarchy.Though details of the discussions were never made public, the visit marked the beginning of a permanent shift for Prince Andrew. In the wake of the scandal, he stepped back from public duties and relinquished many of his official roles and patronages. The Balmoral meeting highlighted the monarchy's internal crisis and underscored the delicate balancing act between familial loyalty and institutional preservation as the royal family confronted one of its most serious controversies in decadesTo contact me:Bobbycapucci@protonmail.comSource:https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8692215/Duke-York-visited-Queen-Balmoral-crisis-talks-Jeffrey-Epstein.html

In early September 2020, amid growing scandal and public scrutiny over his associations with Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew traveled to Balmoral Castle to hold what was described as “crisis talks” with Queen Elizabeth II. This meeting was seen as a critical moment for the royal household, as the Queen and her advisors sought to manage the fallout from mounting allegations, including accusations by Virginia Giuffre and the widely publicized BBC Newsnight interview that followed. Sources at the time characterized the trip as an urgent effort to contain reputational damage and assess Andrew's future role within the monarchy.Though details of the discussions were never made public, the visit marked the beginning of a permanent shift for Prince Andrew. In the wake of the scandal, he stepped back from public duties and relinquished many of his official roles and patronages. The Balmoral meeting highlighted the monarchy's internal crisis and underscored the delicate balancing act between familial loyalty and institutional preservation as the royal family confronted one of its most serious controversies in decadesTo contact me:Bobbycapucci@protonmail.comSource:https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8692215/Duke-York-visited-Queen-Balmoral-crisis-talks-Jeffrey-Epstein.htmlBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

In December 2010, Prince Andrew was photographed taking a casual stroll through New York's Central Park alongside Jeffrey Epstein—just days after Epstein had completed a 13-month jail sentence for soliciting sex from a minor. The image, captured by a paparazzo and later published globally, showed the Duke of York walking shoulder-to-shoulder with a convicted sex offender, deep in conversation. The timing of the meeting and the relaxed nature of their interaction sent shockwaves through Buckingham Palace and ignited a public firestorm, as it contradicted any attempt to downplay the depth of Andrew's relationship with Epstein. Far from a mere social encounter, this post-prison rendezvous strongly implied that Andrew maintained ties with Epstein even after his crimes were widely known.The photograph became a defining symbol of the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, undercutting any narrative that he had distanced himself from Epstein after the latter's conviction. The optics were damning: a senior member of the British royal family publicly associating with a man now globally recognized as a serial predator. What made it even more damaging was that the meeting wasn't a brief, unavoidable encounter—it reportedly took place over several days, during a stay at Epstein's $77 million Manhattan townhouse. That visit, combined with the Central Park stroll, cemented suspicions that Andrew either underestimated the gravity of Epstein's crimes or simply didn't care, both of which would later contribute to his disastrous BBC Newsnight interview and eventual withdrawal from royal duties.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/royals/jeffrey-epstein-wanted-park-pic-28051494Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Netflix's Scoop, a high-profile dramatic film about Prince Andrew's disastrous BBC Newsnight interview — the 2019 broadcast in which he attempted to explain his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — was announced and released to significant attention as it revisits a moment that helped derail his public life. The film, based on Sam McAlister's memoir Scoops and starring roles by Gillian Anderson, Billie Piper, and Rufus Sewell, retells how BBC producers secured the interview and how that event unfolded on camera, showing the palace negotiations and Andrew's statements that were widely panned and mocked. Scoop dropped on Netflix on April 5, 2024 and has since generated discussion not just as entertainment but as a cultural recounting of one of the most consequential media moments involving the British royal family in recent memory.While this film drew interest from audiences and critics intrigued by the behind-the-scenes story of a globally infamous interview, Buckingham Palace did not publicly endorse or celebrate the movie — and its official reactions have been minimal to non-committal. When asked if the palace had reached out to producers or commented on the dramatization, Sam McAlister jokingly noted she hadn't heard from the institution, implying there was no formal engagement from royal spokespeople about the project. The lack of an official positive palace response — combined with the enduring sensitivity around Andrew's role in the Epstein scandal — suggests the establishment prefers to distance itself from dramatizations that revisit and potentially amplify a deeply embarrassing episode for the monarchy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In early September 2020, amid growing scandal and public scrutiny over his associations with Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew traveled to Balmoral Castle to hold what was described as “crisis talks” with Queen Elizabeth II. This meeting was seen as a critical moment for the royal household, as the Queen and her advisors sought to manage the fallout from mounting allegations, including accusations by Virginia Giuffre and the widely publicized BBC Newsnight interview that followed. Sources at the time characterized the trip as an urgent effort to contain reputational damage and assess Andrew's future role within the monarchy.Though details of the discussions were never made public, the visit marked the beginning of a permanent shift for Prince Andrew. In the wake of the scandal, he stepped back from public duties and relinquished many of his official roles and patronages. The Balmoral meeting highlighted the monarchy's internal crisis and underscored the delicate balancing act between familial loyalty and institutional preservation as the royal family confronted one of its most serious controversies in decadesTo contact me:Bobbycapucci@protonmail.comSource:https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8692215/Duke-York-visited-Queen-Balmoral-crisis-talks-Jeffrey-Epstein.htmlBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Queen Elizabeth's deep affection for Prince Andrew blinded her to his flaws and shielded him from the consequences of his own arrogance. From the moment he was born, Andrew was said to be her favorite—her “darling boy”—and that sentiment became a shield he would hide behind for decades. Even as whispers of inappropriate behavior, financial improprieties, and questionable friendships grew louder, the Queen consistently stepped in to protect him. She refused to believe the worst, brushing off concerns as gossip and assuming that the monarchy's institutional authority could outlast any scandal. When the Epstein connection surfaced, she leaned into that same instinct, surrounding him with the palace's most trusted handlers and instructing courtiers to minimize the damage rather than confront the truth.But that unwavering loyalty ultimately detonated in spectacular fashion. By standing by Andrew for too long, the Queen not only undermined her own moral authority but tainted the institution she spent seventy years preserving. The infamous BBC “Newsnight” interview—Andrew's catastrophic attempt to clear his name—became a global humiliation that exposed the rot her protection had allowed to fester. In the end, she was forced to strip him of his titles and banish him from public duties, a move that must have pained her deeply. Yet the damage was done: her favoritism turned into her Achilles' heel, proving that even the most revered monarch could be undone not by enemies, but by the blindness of maternal love.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew's first major “cancellation” unfolded in November 2019 after his infamous BBC Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis. The interview was meant to clear his name regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein, but it instead became a public relations catastrophe. Andrew's demeanor — unapologetic, defensive, and tone-deaf — provoked massive backlash across Britain and beyond. Within days, the Duke of York announced he would be stepping back from public duties “for the foreseeable future,” admitting that his relationship with Epstein had become “a major disruption” to the work of the royal family. The Queen approved his withdrawal, and charities and corporate sponsors swiftly severed ties, effectively exiling him from public life.In the weeks following, more than 230 charities and organisations either dropped him as patron or distanced themselves. Buckingham Palace quietly confirmed he would no longer represent the Crown in any official capacity, marking the first time in modern royal history that a senior royal was effectively removed due to scandal rather than abdication or illness. The event became known as Andrew's first “cancellation” — a total collapse of public and institutional support triggered by his disastrous defense of an indefensible friendship. It also set the tone for the years of isolation, legal scrutiny, and humiliation that would follow.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

A Newsweek poll conducted in mid-2020 revealed that a majority of Britons believed Prince Andrew should face extradition to the United States for questioning over his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to the survey, 59 percent of respondents said the Duke of York should be sent to the U.S. if requested by authorities, while 52 percent said he should also be stripped of his remaining royal titles. The poll reflected widespread public anger following Andrew's disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, in which his attempts to distance himself from Epstein backfired and intensified scrutiny over his conduct and associations.The findings underscored the severe reputational damage Andrew's scandal inflicted on the British monarchy, highlighting the growing public demand for accountability. Despite his insistence on cooperating with law enforcement “when required,” U.S. prosecutors at the time accused him of failing to respond to official requests for an interview, deepening frustration both in America and the U.K. The poll's results were seen as a clear signal that the public's patience had run out, with a majority viewing him as a liability to the royal family rather than a protected institution of it.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew's silence regarding Jeffrey Epstein has become one of the most glaring stains on the royal family's reputation. Despite the gravity of the allegations and repeated calls for transparency, Andrew has largely avoided public comment since his disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where he denied ever meeting Virginia Giuffre and infamously claimed he couldn't sweat. After that debacle, he retreated from public life, releasing only carefully worded statements through palace intermediaries. U.S. prosecutors later confirmed that Andrew provided “zero cooperation” with their Epstein investigation, despite publicly pledging to assist authorities.Even after settling Giuffre's civil lawsuit in 2022 for a reported £12 million without admitting guilt, Andrew has remained silent on Epstein's death, the scope of their friendship, or his continued contact with the disgraced financier after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Recent document releases have shown that Andrew and Epstein exchanged emails long after Andrew claimed to have cut ties, intensifying suspicions of deceit and complicity. His ongoing refusal to speak—whether out of arrogance, fear, or legal strategy—has left the public and victims with only questions, not answers.to contact  me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew has faced mounting scrutiny over multiple visits to Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan townhouse, particularly the infamous 2010 trip captured in photos and surveillance footage showing him waving goodbye to Epstein at the door. Andrew has admitted to staying there for several days after Epstein's release from jail, calling it a “mistake” but insisting the purpose was to end their friendship. However, numerous reports, including witness accounts and court filings, indicate his visits were far more frequent and intimate than publicly acknowledged. Epstein's staff, including housekeeper Juan Alessi, alleged that Andrew was seen receiving massages and spending extended time with Epstein and his associates. Other witnesses described Andrew being present during gatherings where underage girls were allegedly trafficked.Despite his repeated denials, the optics of those visits have haunted the Duke of York. The 2010 stay, in particular, took place years after Epstein's 2008 conviction, leading many to question why Andrew would maintain contact with a known sex offender. His 2019 BBC Newsnight interview only intensified criticism after his bizarre claim that he stayed at Epstein's home simply because it was “convenient.” Public outrage grew as court documents tied Andrew's name to Epstein's flight logs, and Virginia Giuffre accused him of sexual abuse at both Epstein's townhouse and other properties — allegations Andrew continues to deny. The scandal has since resulted in his expulsion from royal duties and permanent damage to his public reputation.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

The nickname “nonce” became associated with Prince Andrew following the exposure of his deep ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the allegations made by Virginia Giuffre that he had sexual contact with her when she was underage. In British slang, “nonce” is a highly derogatory term for someone accused of child sexual abuse, and the label stuck after Andrew's disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, where his denials — including the infamous “I don't sweat” line — made him a public laughingstock. The term spread rapidly through social media, satire, and even pop culture, culminating in the release of the punk song Prince Andrew Is a Sweaty Nonce, which mocked both his scandal and his implausible defenses. The nickname became shorthand for his fall from grace and a reflection of the public's disgust toward his alleged conduct and lack of accountability.When Prince Philip died in April 2021, Andrew maneuvered his way into the funeral despite being stripped of royal duties and public standing. Attendance was strictly limited to thirty people due to COVID restrictions, but Andrew, as Philip's son, was included as a matter of protocol — a decision that sparked backlash among both the public and palace insiders. Reports suggested Andrew was eager to use the event as a soft return to royal life, positioning himself visibly in the procession and trying to rehabilitate his image through sympathy optics. While the palace maintained his inclusion was a family matter, critics viewed it as a calculated move by Andrew to reinsert himself into royal proceedings after the Epstein scandal had effectively exiled him from public life.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew's Royal Lodge controversy stems from the fallout of his disastrous ties to Jeffrey Epstein and the long shadow of that scandal. After his 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, which spectacularly backfired, Andrew was stripped of his public roles, military titles, and royal patronages. Once a senior working royal, he became an isolated figure whose financial situation—and entitlement to royal housing—were both thrown into question. Yet, despite his exile from public life, Andrew has continued to occupy the lavish Royal Lodge estate, sparking outrage among critics and frustration within the royal family.The Royal Lodge, a 30-room Georgian mansion sitting on nearly 100 acres in Windsor Great Park, is leased to Andrew on a 75-year agreement for a token rent. Reports suggest the property has fallen into disrepair, needing millions in renovation costs, while King Charles III has allegedly pushed his brother to relocate to the smaller Frogmore Cottage as part of a broader cost-cutting effort. Andrew's refusal to move has become symbolic of his stubborn detachment from reality—clinging to royal privilege while his reputation crumbles. The “Royal Lodge fiasco,” as it's now called, represents not just a housing dispute but a broader public debate over accountability, privilege, and the monarchy's handling of its most disgraced member.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Prince Andrew's Royal Lodge controversy stems from the fallout of his disastrous ties to Jeffrey Epstein and the long shadow of that scandal. After his 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, which spectacularly backfired, Andrew was stripped of his public roles, military titles, and royal patronages. Once a senior working royal, he became an isolated figure whose financial situation—and entitlement to royal housing—were both thrown into question. Yet, despite his exile from public life, Andrew has continued to occupy the lavish Royal Lodge estate, sparking outrage among critics and frustration within the royal family.The Royal Lodge, a 30-room Georgian mansion sitting on nearly 100 acres in Windsor Great Park, is leased to Andrew on a 75-year agreement for a token rent. Reports suggest the property has fallen into disrepair, needing millions in renovation costs, while King Charles III has allegedly pushed his brother to relocate to the smaller Frogmore Cottage as part of a broader cost-cutting effort. Andrew's refusal to move has become symbolic of his stubborn detachment from reality—clinging to royal privilege while his reputation crumbles. The “Royal Lodge fiasco,” as it's now called, represents not just a housing dispute but a broader public debate over accountability, privilege, and the monarchy's handling of its most disgraced member.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Sam McAlister — former BBC Newsnight producer and author of Scoops: Behind the Scenes of the BBC's Most Shocking Interviews — has given extensive behind-the-scenes commentary on how the infamous interview with Prince Andrew, Duke of York came to be. She recounts how her original approach was for a routine charity-profile, but as the scandal involving Jeffrey Epstein intensified, she persuaded the palace to agree to a sit-down that would include “the news issues that were pertinent” — including Epstein. She says she was shocked at how open and responsive Andrew seemed during the negotiations, which gave her confidence the interview would proceed.McAlister also states that, in the direct lead-up to the interview's broadcast, Andrew believed he had succeeded — he reportedly gave the BBC interviewing team a tour of Buckingham Palace, smiled and seemed upbeat, giving the impression he expected the exposure to vindicate him. She observes that his tone shifted dramatically as the fallout emerged, noting: “He was in fine spirits!” after filming, even as the answers rolled out in the final cut that would crash his reputation.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Today, we discuss the allegations made in Virginia Giuffre's memoir against Prince Andrew.Virginia Giuffre passed away in April after taking her own life, but finished writing the book before her death. The book goes into detail about the allegations she has made against Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell. Prince Andrew denies all of the allegations made against him, but gave up his royal titles on Friday. What does Giuffre say in the book, and how have the Royal Family responded? Adam is joined in the studio with BBC Newsnight presenter Victoria Derbyshire, and BBC royal correspondent Daniela Relph.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.