Amanda Thirsk: The Former Private Secretary to Prince Andrew – Her Journey, Controversies, and Life After the Palace
Amanda Thirsk, a name once closely associated with British royalty, played a significant role as the private secretary to Prince Andrew, the Duke of York. Her career within the royal household and subsequent life changes have drawn public interest, especially after her involvement in the infamous BBC “Newsnight” interview with Prince Andrew. This article delves into her career, her association with Prince Andrew, and what happened to Amanda Thirsk after her departure from royal duties.
Who is Amanda Thirsk?
Born in July 1965, Amanda Thirsk is a British professional who initially pursued a career in finance after graduating with a law degree from the University of Cambridge. Amanda began her career in banking before transitioning into the royal circle in 2004. Her role gradually evolved, and by 2012, she was appointed as Prince Andrew’s private secretary, one of the most trusted and influential positions within his team. Over her years of service, she became a key advisor and confidante to the Duke of York, managing his schedule and, importantly, his public image.
Amanda Thirsk and Prince Andrew: A Trusted Partnership
As the private secretary to Prince Andrew, Amanda Thirsk had immense influence on the Duke’s decisions, particularly regarding his public engagements and interactions. Known for her diligence, Thirsk played a significant role in managing his image, especially when his reputation began facing scrutiny. She worked closely with Prince Andrew during a period when he was involved in many public initiatives, including his role as a trade envoy promoting British business interests overseas.
Her position, however, extended beyond administrative duties. Thirsk became one of the Duke’s closest confidantes, actively supporting his decisions and strategizing public appearances. However, this close professional relationship ultimately placed Thirsk at the center of a major controversy that would later lead to her departure from the royal household.
The “Newsnight” Interview and Its Fallout
In 2019, Amanda Thirsk orchestrated a significant media appearance for Prince Andrew to address mounting allegations and suspicions surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Thirsk believed that a televised interview would allow the Duke to clear his name and address the accusations head-on. However, the “Newsnight” interview, intended to provide clarity, backfired spectacularly.
In the interview, Prince Andrew’s statements sparked public outrage, as he struggled to address critical questions and appeared detached from the gravity of the accusations. His explanations were widely criticized, leading to severe backlash from the public, media, and royal observers. The fallout was so significant that the Duke faced calls to step back from his public duties, and the royal family distanced themselves from the controversy. Thirsk, as the architect of the interview, found herself at the center of blame.
What Happened to Amanda Thirsk?
After the disastrous “Newsnight” interview, Thirsk’s position as the Duke’s private secretary became untenable. Many within the royal household and outside commentators attributed part of the debacle to Thirsk’s judgment in advising the Duke to participate in the interview. Amid the ongoing scandal and public outcry, Thirsk reached a legal settlement and formally parted ways with the royal household after 15 years of service. Her departure marked the end of an era, as she had been one of the Duke’s most steadfast supporters.
Was Amanda Thirsk Sacked?
While Amanda Thirsk’s exit from royal duties was labeled a “settlement,” it was widely speculated that her departure was inevitable due to the immense backlash following the “Newsnight” interview. Although it remains unclear whether she was directly dismissed or pressured to leave, her separation from the palace was understood as a necessary move in response to the crisis. The royal family’s image and reputation had been severely impacted, and removing Thirsk was seen as an essential step toward damage control.
Amanda Thirsk Now: Life After Royalty
Following her departure from royal duties, Amanda Thirsk did not fade from the public eye. Instead, she transitioned into the private sector, leveraging her experience and skillset. She took on a senior business development role with JD.com, a major e-commerce company based in China. In her new role, Thirsk reportedly became involved in high-level business discussions, including talks of potential acquisitions, such as the UK electronics retailer Currys.
Thirsk’s move to the private sector reflects her resilience and adaptability, showing her ability to pivot into new roles despite the controversies surrounding her royal service. Today, she remains active in her professional endeavors, continuing to make strides in the business world.
Amanda Thirsk’s Husband and Personal Life
Although Amanda Thirsk’s professional life has been well-documented, less is known about her personal life, particularly her relationship with her husband. Details about her marriage remain private, as Thirsk has largely kept her family life away from public scrutiny. Her focus has remained on her career and professional engagements, both during her time with the royal family and in her subsequent ventures.
Amanda Thirsk’s Net Worth and Financial Standing
While exact figures regarding Amanda Thirsk’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, her years of service to Prince Andrew, followed by her career in the private sector, likely contributed to her financial stability. Her legal settlement with the royal household and current role at JD.com also suggest a level of financial security. Given her extensive experience in high-level advisory roles, Thirsk is well-positioned in her career, and her net worth reflects her status as a seasoned professional in both public and private sectors.
The Legacy of Prince Andrew’s Private Secretary, Amanda Thirsk
Amanda Thirsk’s legacy as Prince Andrew’s private secretary is complex and marked by a mixture of loyalty, ambition, and controversy. While her commitment to her role was evident, her decision to arrange the “Newsnight” interview has become a defining aspect of her career. Despite the backlash and subsequent exit from royal duties, Thirsk’s resilience in transitioning to the business world demonstrates her adaptability.
Her journey offers insights into the inner workings of royal aides and the immense responsibilities and risks they face in managing the public image of high-profile figures. Though her role with Prince Andrew ended under difficult circumstances, her professional path since then shows a woman determined to rebuild her reputation and make a meaningful impact in her field.
Conclusion
Amanda Thirsk’s story is one of loyalty, controversy, and transformation. Her time as Prince Andrew’s private secretary placed her in the public eye, particularly following the fallout from the “Newsnight” interview. While the controversy led to her departure from royal service, Thirsk’s pivot to the private sector has allowed her to continue her professional journey. Today, Amanda Thirsk remains a figure of interest, embodying both the challenges and resilience that come with a career intertwined with royalty. Her journey serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in managing public figures and the lasting impact of pivotal career decisions.
