Sarah Ferguson publicly criticized Epstein. In private, she apologized to her ‘supreme friend’
Sarah Ferguson publicly criticized Epstein. In private, she apologized to her ‘supreme friend’
Almost 15 years after her high-profile divorce from Prince Andrew in 1996, Sarah Ferguson found herself in a precarious financial situation. With rent debts mounting and a search for new professional opportunities underway, the former duchess turned to her confidant, Jeffrey Epstein, for support. Now 66, Ferguson’s personal and professional challenges led her to seek Epstein’s counsel, despite the growing controversies surrounding his activities.
CNN’s analysis of Epstein’s documents reveals a dual relationship
Documents from the Justice Department’s “Epstein library” indicate Ferguson frequently expressed admiration for Epstein, even after his 2008 Florida conviction for child sexual abuse. In messages, she referred to him as her “spectacular and special friend” and “the brother I have always wished for,” while offering words of pride during his incarceration.
“I am so proud of you”
she wrote, highlighting her public endorsement of his efforts.
However, this admiration contrasted with her later public statements linking Epstein to pedophilia. Despite criticizing him in interviews, Ferguson’s private correspondence shows she remained apologetic, expressing regret for her remarks.
“Thanks for being such a great friend”
she penned in a heartfelt note, closing with “Lots of love” and “Xxxx.”
Epstein’s financial influence and Ferguson’s aspirations
Ferguson sought Epstein’s assistance not only emotionally but also professionally. She repeatedly asked for financial backing and proposed working as his “house assistant,” while also inquiring about potential partnerships. His vision for a new venture, “Mothers Army,” a nonprofit aimed at aiding mothers through corporate sponsorship, captured her interest.
“You are a legend, and I am so proud of you”
she responded, vowing to develop a “business plan” for the initiative.
Epstein, who was on work release during his 18-month jail term in 2009, approved her visit to his Palm Beach residence. He wrote back:
“yes”
to her request for a brief tea. Two days later, he sent an email beginning with:
“you look great”
and detailed his plans for the organization, which Ferguson eagerly embraced.
Legacy of connections and corporate fallout
Following Epstein’s release in July 2009, Ferguson arranged to meet him in person, mentioning her daughters Beatrice and Eugenie in the arrangement.
“Are we having lunch?”
she asked, though it remains unclear if the meeting occurred. Emails also suggest Epstein used Ferguson’s name to facilitate access to royal facilities, such as Buckingham Palace Apartments, when offering social events to acquaintances. He wrote in 2009:
“fergie said she could organize tea in the buckingham palace apts.. or windsor castle”
—a detail that has since resurfaced in public scrutiny.
Ferguson’s ties to Epstein have intensified since the release of millions of files, revealing her role in his network. While she has not been formally charged, six of her affiliated companies are closing as a result of the exposure. Meanwhile, her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, faces significant consequences for his own involvement, including losing his titles, being removed from the monarchy, and arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office in February 2026.
