A South African massage therapist has been named in fresh international reports linked to former British royal Prince Andrew, adding a new dimension to ongoing scrutiny surrounding his past associations.
The allegation, first reported by the Daily Mail, claims that masseuse Monique Giannelloni was invited to Buckingham Palace in June 2000 to provide a private massage to Andrew.
Giannelloni was reported paid £75 (R1 620 at today’s exchange rate).
READ | Ex-Prince Andrew: Will he be removed from line of succession?
Buckingham Palace staff facilitated her entry
The allegation comes amid renewed scrutiny in the United Kingdom over Andrew’s past relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
According to the report, Giannelloni alleges she was introduced through Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell and that palace staff facilitated her entry to the royal residence.
She maintains that the appointment formed part of her professional work with high-profile international clients at the time.
While the massage claim is not the subject of any confirmed criminal proceedings, it has reignited debate about Andrew’s conduct and judgement during the period he held official public roles.
Denied wrongdoing
Prince Andrew served as the UK’s Special Representative for Trade and Investment from 2001 until 2011, stepping down amid controversy linked to his association with Epstein.
He has consistently denied wrongdoing and has not been charged in relation to the resurfaced claims.
The latest reporting has intensified discussion in Britain about standards of conduct, access to royal residences and accountability within public institutions.
Political figures have called for greater transparency regarding Andrew’s past official duties.