The Duke of York, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, have faced a significant social setback as one of London's most prestigious private clubs has shown them the door.
The Annabel's Ban
Staff at the legendary Annabel's nightclub in Mayfair have reportedly received instructions to refuse entry to the disgraced pair. This decisive move comes amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the former couple's association with the convicted paedophile, Jeffrey Epstein.
While the club has historically hosted a glittering array of celebrities, from Princess Diana and Frank Sinatra to Mick Jagger and Kate Moss, it has now drawn a firm line. A source told the Daily Mail, "Sarah and Andrew at this point would be turned away. Their type of notoriety is not what the club needs."
An Informal Privilege Revoked
Interestingly, Andrew and Fergie were never official members of the club, which commands an annual membership fee of £3,750. Instead, they enjoyed a rare, informal arrangement that permitted them access to the exclusive venue, a privilege that has now been abruptly terminated.
This development adds to the growing list of titles, honours, and memberships being stripped from the pair. The source indicated that the club's management did not wish to be an exception to this trend, stating, "Annabel’s have reportedly not wanted to stray."
Awkward Family Dynamics
The situation creates a potentially uncomfortable scenario for their daughters. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are both members of Annabel's. As members, they hold the privilege of signing in guests, which could lead to awkward encounters should they attempt to bring their parents to the club from which they are now barred.
The source added a poignant note, suggesting, "There is some trepidation that actually Annabel’s is among the few remaining places the couple might feel they can still go." This ban effectively closes another door in their dwindling social circle. Both Andrew and Fergie have consistently denied all claims made against them in relation to the Epstein scandal.
