A decades-long, unconventional arrangement is unraveling for Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew. For years, the divorced couple shared not only a history but a home – a sprawling mansion on the Windsor estate. Now, they face a shared loss: their titles and the roof over their heads.
Ferguson, often known as Fergie, navigated a remarkable transformation after her 1996 divorce. She rebuilt a public persona as an author and media figure, slowly regaining acceptance within the royal circle after a period of estrangement. Yet, her connection to Prince Andrew remained unusually strong, a bond she famously described as that of “the best divorced couple in the world.”
The recent erosion of Andrew’s standing began earlier this October when he relinquished his Duke of York title amidst renewed scrutiny of his association with Jeffrey Epstein. But King Charles’s decisive action on Thursday – stripping Andrew of all titles and evicting him from the 30-room Royal Lodge – threatens to cast a long shadow over Ferguson’s reputation as well.
Her own past actions have contributed to the current crisis. A 2011 email surfaced in recent weeks, revealing Ferguson’s effusive praise of Epstein, calling him a “steadfast, generous and supreme friend” – years after his conviction for soliciting underage girls. The revelation triggered a swift backlash, with numerous charities severing ties with the 66-year-old.
Ferguson has maintained she had no involvement with Epstein’s crimes, characterizing a £15,000 loan from him as a “gigantic error.” She has also acknowledged past financial struggles, explaining the loan was intended to alleviate her debts. A damaging 2010 video surfaced, showing her offering access to Prince Andrew in exchange for money, further complicating the situation.
Prince Andrew is expected to relocate to a private residence on the King’s Sandringham estate. Ferguson, however, must find her own accommodations. Reports suggest Andrew only agreed to leave Royal Lodge once it became clear Ferguson would be moving out as well.
The fate of their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, remains somewhat secure. Both will retain their princess titles, a decision likely intended to encourage Andrew’s cooperation with the King’s demands. The royal family seemingly used their granddaughters’ future within the institution as leverage.
Adding a poignant layer to the upheaval is the question of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved corgis, Muick and Sandy. Andrew and Ferguson were entrusted with their care following the Queen’s death in September 2022. The dogs’ future, and with whom they will reside as the former couple separates, remains uncertain.
Ferguson has even claimed to receive messages from the Queen *through* the corgis. She recounted how they would greet her each morning with enthusiastic “woof woofs,” which she interpreted as her mother-in-law communicating from beyond. Despite the changing circumstances, the family intends to continue caring for the cherished pets.
