It has been several months since Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, was last seen in public, with the royal figure maintaining a notably low profile as the ongoing Jeffrey Epstein scandal continues to dominate headlines. The disappearance coincides with Prince Andrew's own retreat from public life, following the release of documents that have reignited scrutiny over their connections to the convicted paedophile.
Andrew's Exile and Ferguson's Disappearance
Prince Andrew has reportedly made a swift departure into exile, relocating to Norfolk and leaving his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, to manage the fallout independently. This move came after the latest batch of Epstein files brought their associations with the disgraced financier back into the spotlight, prompting Andrew to leave their former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, under the cover of darkness.
Removal vans were observed arriving at the property recently, marking the end of their tenure at the opulent 30-room mansion. Initially, there were suggestions that Ferguson might negotiate for a grace-and-favour residence on the Crown Estate, but ultimately, only Andrew was allocated alternative accommodation.
A New Home for Andrew
Andrew is now set to reside at Marsh Farm, a five-bedroom cottage on the Sandringham Estate, which is a stark contrast to the luxury of Royal Lodge. Reports indicate he is far from pleased with the arrangement, particularly due to the inability to have live-in staff, though King Charles has offered ad-hoc support from Sandringham personnel.
Ferguson's Whereabouts: Speculation and Theories
With Andrew settled in Norfolk, questions have arisen about Sarah Ferguson's location. Royal author Andrew Lownie, who penned a biography on the couple, suggests she may have fled the country, a tactic she has employed previously during times of scandal.
Potential Caribbean Hideaway
Lownie speculates that Ferguson could be staying at Richard Branson's private Necker Island in the Caribbean. This luxurious retreat has hosted Ferguson and her daughters, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, in the past, and it aligns with her history of seeking refuge abroad when faced with public scrutiny.
In 2011, during a cash-for-access scandal, Ferguson reportedly vacationed on Necker Island to escape the media frenzy. Lownie notes in his book that she has visited the island multiple times, including for Branson's 60th birthday, and has also stayed at his Safari Ranch in South Africa.
Financial Strains and Epstein Connections
The latest Epstein files reveal troubling correspondence, including emails where Ferguson refers to Epstein as "the brother I have always wished for" and requests £20,000 for unpaid rent in 2009. These disclosures have compounded her difficulties, leading to her being dropped by charities, stripped of her royal title, and facing eviction.
Family Dynamics and Support
Despite initial offers from her daughters, it appears neither Eugenie nor Beatrice is currently hosting their mother. Eugenie has reportedly distanced herself from her disgraced father, while Beatrice was recently seen with Andrew, indicating a more nuanced family dynamic.
Lownie describes it as "odd" that Ferguson's daughters would not provide shelter, suggesting they may be balancing public appearances with private loyalty. He explains that their future prospects within the royal family and commercial opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, influence their actions.
Avoiding Andrew's Company
Lownie doubts that Ferguson would join Andrew at Sandringham, quipping that she likely wouldn't want to be "linked to old misery guts." This sentiment underscores the strained relationship and separate paths they are taking amid the scandal.
Conclusion: A Glamorous Escape?
While rumours have circulated about Ferguson potentially staying in a cow shed or rental property, experts believe her destination might be far more glamorous. Her pattern of sponging off wealthy friends, as noted by Lownie, supports the theory of a luxurious hideaway like Necker Island, where she can avoid the public eye and the ongoing Epstein fallout.
