Prince William and Kate Middleton are said to be facing a “dreaded chapter” as the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew once again threatens to cast a shadow over the royal family.

According to a new report, the Prince and Princess of Wales “have drawn up what aides privately call the final line” when it comes to dealing with the Duke of York.

The couple, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, are preparing to move into their new home, Forest Lodge — located just a short drive from Andrew’s Royal Lodge residence in Windsor.

William and Kate’s ‘firmest stance yet’

Sources told Closer that both William and Kate, 43, want Andrew “permanently off the stage.” The insider described the situation as “the chapter William and Kate have dreaded,” adding that they are determined to ensure the Duke of York no longer plays any active role in royal life.

Prince Andrew, 65, has been mired in controversy for years, primarily due to his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In 2019, Andrew stepped back from royal duties after his friendship with Epstein and allegations of sexual assault became public. Virginia Giuffre alleged that Epstein forced her to sleep with Andrew on three occasions when she was 17. The Duke has consistently denied the accusations, insisting he has no recollection of ever meeting her.

In February 2022, Andrew and Giuffre reached an out-of-court settlement in her civil case in the United States. The deal was made a month after the Duke was stripped of his military titles and royal patronages.

‘No royal role, no funding, no public future’

Since then, Andrew has maintained a low profile, largely staying at his Windsor home. His public appearances have been rare, most recently attending the Duchess of Kent’s funeral, where he was briefly seen speaking with Prince William.

However, reports suggest the Waleses have now taken a firm stance as Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl is set for release next week.

“This is the chapter William and Kate have dreaded,” the insider reiterated. “They want Andrew permanently off the stage. Together, William and Kate are said to have drawn up what aides privately call the final line — no royal role, no funding, and no future public appearances for Andrew.”

The source added that this marks “the firmest position yet” and could finally see the Yorks — Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson — excluded from the royal inner circle for good.

Kensington Palace has been contacted for comment.

William and Andrew’s strained relationship

Although neither William nor Andrew has publicly spoken about their relationship, royal insiders have long suggested the pair do not get along.

Observers believe that Andrew’s scandals have deeply strained family ties and that William, as future king, will take a hard line on accountability and modern standards within the monarchy.

One royal commentator even suggested that Andrew “should fear the day William becomes king” — a day that could formally close the curtain on his role in royal life once and for all.