Prince Andrew's arrest is being absorbed through the Epstein lens because that's the story most people already have in their heads, but the actual charge is something more specific and in some ways more provable. Misconduct in public office means he's accused of passing confidential trade and investment information, received in his role as UK special trade representative, directly to Epstein for financial benefit, often within seconds of receiving it. The sex trafficking connection may emerge later. What's been charged right now is closer to leaking secrets to someone who profited from them.

Randell Hansen at the Munk School of Global Affairs describes this as the most serious crisis the monarchy has faced in a century, more serious than the abdication and more serious than the public grief over Diana's death, because this one is legal and Andrew could go to prison. King Charles's response has been to distance the institution as completely as possible: titles gone, lodgings gone, and a public statement that Hansen translates as the family throwing Andrew to the wolves. The late Queen apparently knew about his behavior for years and chose to protect him. That protection ended when she did.

For Canada, Hansen is direct: republican sentiment will climb here, but this isn't the moment to push for a republic, partly because of the constitutional complexity and partly because the most visible republic right now is the one next door talking about annexation.

Topics: Prince Andrew arrest, misconduct in public office UK, Epstein files, Canadian monarchy republicanism, Peter Mandelson charges

GUEST: Randell Hansen | Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy

Originally aired on 2026-02-19

Prince Andrew's arrest is being absorbed through the Epstein lens because that's the story most people already have in their heads, but the actual charge is something more specific and in some ways more provable. Misconduct in public office means he's accused of passing confidential trade and investment information, received in his role as UK special trade representative, directly to Epstein for financial benefit, often within seconds of receiving it. The sex trafficking connection may emerge later. What's been charged right now is closer to leaking secrets to someone who profited from them.
Randell Hansen at the Munk School of Global Affairs describes this as the most serious crisis the monarchy has faced in a century, more serious than the abdication and more serious than the public grief over Diana's death, because this one is legal and Andrew could go to prison. King Charles's response has been to distance the institution as completely as possible: titles gone, lodgings gone, and a public statement that Hansen translates as the family throwing Andrew to the wolves. The late Queen apparently knew about his behavior for years and chose to protect him. That protection ended when she did.
For Canada, Hansen is direct: republican sentiment will climb here, but this isn't the moment to push for a republic, partly because of the constitutional complexity and partly because the most visible republic right now is the one next door talking about annexation.
Topics: Prince Andrew arrest, misconduct in public office UK, Epstein files, Canadian monarchy republicanism, Peter Mandelson charges
GUEST: Randell Hansen | Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-02-19

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.