Sarah Ferguson publicly criticized Epstein. In private, she apologized to her ‘supreme friend’
Financial struggles and reliance on Epstein
Over a decade and a half after her divorce from the former prince in 1996, Sarah Ferguson found herself in a difficult financial situation. Tens of thousands of pounds in unpaid rent, feelings of isolation, and the search for a new career left her in need of support. She turned to her close friend, Jeffrey Epstein, for guidance and assistance. CNN’s analysis of the Justice Department’s “Epstein library” revealed that Ferguson frequently expressed admiration for him, even after his 2008 Florida conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor.
Affectionate praise and private remorse
Ferguson’s messages often highlighted her warm regard for Epstein. She referred to him as her “spectacular and special friend” and called him “the brother I have always wished for.” While he served his jail term, she told him,
“I am so proud of you,”
and joked that he should marry her. However, public criticism of Epstein emerged later. In an interview, she linked him to pedophilia, yet emails show she later expressed regret for those remarks, offering private apologies.
Mothers Army and royal connections
Epstein proposed a venture called “Mothers Army,” aiming to support mothers in need through corporate funding. Ferguson appeared enthusiastic, responding with
“You are a legend, and I am so proud of you,”
and pledged to develop a “business plan.” Emails also suggest Epstein leveraged her name to facilitate access to royal properties. In 2009, he wrote to a couple:
“fergie said she could organize tea in the buckingham palace apts.. or windsor castle.”
(It remains unclear if this occurred.)
Impact on ex-husband and career
Ferguson’s ties to Epstein have gained new attention following the release of millions of files. Her ex-husband, the former Prince Andrew, faced public disgrace due to his association with the late sex offender, including losing his royal titles and being arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Six companies connected to Ferguson are now closing down, though she has not been charged with crimes related to Epstein. The appearance of her name in the files does not inherently imply wrongdoing.
Epstein’s release and subsequent interactions
In April 2009, Epstein was still serving part of his 18-month sentence when Ferguson sent an email asking if they could meet for tea during her layover in Palm Beach. He replied affirmatively, though it’s uncertain if their meeting took place. Two days later, he sent another message, beginning with
“You look great.”
The email outlined his vision for “Mothers Army,” which Ferguson later described as “read and devoured.” She committed to crafting a business strategy, signing off with “Lots of love” and “Xxxx.”
Legacy of the Epstein files
By July 2009, Ferguson had arranged to meet Epstein in person. Emails from that month mention plans to meet “myself, Beatrice, and Eugenie” for lunch. Her daughters were 20 and 19 at the time, but it’s unclear if the meeting occurred. The correspondence continued as she sought his input on trademarking “Mothers Army” and ensuring the business’s success. The initiative was officially incorporated in October 2011 and dissolved in December 2016, with Ferguson listed as a director.
