After Prince Andrew addressed his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein during his BBC interview, he received a slew of backlash from the press and public about the way he handled the matter.

Despite the harsh criticism, the Duke of York reportedly told Queen Elizabeth the interview was a success. Those close to the 59-year-old claim they haven’t had the heart to tell Andrew that the interview has backfired.

“The Duke went to church with the Queen and was heard telling her it’s all been a great success. He thinks he’s done the right thing and has put the criticism to rest. He was all smiles and was looking very buoyant and happy,” an insider told The Sun.

“As well as chatting, Andrew and the Queen also prayed together. He walked to the church so they weren’t pictured together.”

Although Prince Andrew reportedly believes he has cleared his name, those around him are hesitant to tell the Duke the truth. “He’s told his friends and advisers he is delighted because he thought he acquitted himself well. He’s cock-a-hoop,” the source explained.

The insider went on to suggest that the decision to protect Prince Andrew from the truth will only hurt him in the long run. “He seriously believes he’s pulled off a master triumph. It’s astonishing. No one has the heart to tell him that he’s delusional — and this is the overall problem. He’s surrounded by people who tell him what he wants to hear,” the tipster revealed.

“Yesterday he was looking happier than he has been for months, totally unaware his interview had caused a firestorm of criticism.”

Despite the public’s reaction to the scandalous interview, the source claimed Queen Elizabeth will support her son. “The Queen is very much intending to stand by Andrew. The sad reality is that she’s got a blind spot when it comes to him, as her favorite son,” the insider shared.

“It’s a bit like how Margaret Thatcher was with her son Mark. Andrew can’t do any wrong in the Queen’s eyes.”

Due to his confidence following the interview, those close to Prince Andrew claim he will continue to attend royal engagements and scheduled events rather than avoid the spotlight.

Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Andrew
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Andrew have a close relationship with each other. Pictured: The Queen and Prince Andrew arrive in the Royal procession on day 3 of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse on June 21, 2018 in Ascot, England. Getty Images/Joe Maher for Ascot Racecourse