Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, has been left profoundly distressed and 'shaken to the core' by the dramatic consequences of her ex-husband Prince Andrew's association with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
A Royal Safety Net Withdrawn
The couple's troubles reached a new peak when they were reportedly ousted from their long-term home, the 30-bedroom Royal Lodge in Windsor. They had shared this residence for nearly two decades, even after their divorce, making the eviction a particularly harsh blow.
According to royal expert Hilary Fordwich, Sarah Ferguson's nerves are now 'frayed' by the sudden loss of what she perceived as her 'royal safety net'. The situation has escalated to the point where Fordwich claims Sarah has told staff she 'no longer believes in Andrew' and is 'prepared to go her own way' after years of publicly defending him.
Strain on Family and Future
The ongoing scandal is taking a significant personal toll. Broadcaster Helena Chard confirmed that Sarah is deeply concerned about the impact on her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. She reportedly 'fears further humiliation' and worries that the serious allegations will damage her girls' standing in society. It is noted that the princesses have already taken steps to distance themselves from their parents' controversies.
The unique relationship between Sarah and Andrew, which saw them remain close friends and cohabit for decades post-divorce, is now under immense strain. While both are still in Windsor, they are reportedly sleeping at different ends of the sprawling Royal Lodge. Hilary Fordwich described a 'real rupture' in their famously unconventional bond, noting they now only meet to discuss their uncertain futures.
An Uncertain Path Forward
The King's decisive action in response to Andrew's tattered public reputation appears to have driven a wedge between the former couple. Their futures are now diverging sharply. Reports suggest that Prince Andrew will move to a new home on the king's Sandringham estate in the new year.
Sarah Ferguson's own plans, however, are far less certain. There is speculation that a relocation abroad could be a possibility for the former Duchess, marking a definitive break from her life in the UK. Royal biographer Robert Jobson, who has known Sarah for years, commented to Hello! Magazine that she is currently 'not great,' acknowledging the documented mistakes but questioning whether she deserves to be in the same predicament as Andrew.