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’
Sarah Ferguson, former spouse of Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, faced significant challenges. Over 15 years after her 1996 divorce from the royal, she struggled with mounting rent debts, emotional solitude, and the pursuit of a new professional path. In search of support, Ferguson turned to her trusted confidant, Jeffrey Epstein, for guidance. CNN’s analysis of numerous Justice Department files revealed Ferguson’s frequent admiration for Epstein, even after his 2008 Florida conviction for soliciting prostitution involving a minor.
Epstein, referred to by Ferguson as her “spectacular and special friend” and “the brother I have always wished for,” received heartfelt praise in messages. She expressed pride in his accomplishments while he served his jail term, including joking that he should consider marriage. The ex-duchess, now 66, also sought financial assistance from Epstein, repeatedly asking if she could borrow money and requesting employment as his “house assistant.”
Despite public criticism linking Epstein to pedophilia, Ferguson’s private correspondence with him showed remorse. After an interview where she tied him to child sex offenses, she privately expressed regret for those remarks. Ferguson is among several high-profile figures whose connections to the late convicted sex offender have surfaced through the Justice Department’s millions of released files.
Her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, has faced public scrutiny for his association with Epstein. He was stripped of royal titles, removed from the monarchy, and forced to leave his home at the Crown’s Windsor Estate. In February 2023, he was arrested on charges of misconduct in public office. Six companies tied to Ferguson are also closing due to the exposure of Epstein’s documents, though she has not been charged with any crimes related to the financier.
In early April 2009, as Epstein’s 18-month prison term neared its end, he received an email from Ferguson. She inquired if she could visit him in Palm Beach for tea during a layover. Epstein, granted work-release privileges, responded with a simple “yes.” Two days later, he sent a message beginning with “you look great.” He proposed a venture called “Mothers Army,” a program to aid mothers through corporate sponsorship. Ferguson, overjoyed, called him a “legend” and promised to submit a “business plan” soon.
Within a week of Epstein’s release, Ferguson planned to meet him in person. Emails from late July 2009 mention her intention to visit with her daughters, Beatrice and Eugenie. She asked if they could have lunch together, though it remains unclear if the meeting occurred. Continued correspondence focused on refining the “Mothers Army” concept, with Ferguson seeking Epstein’s input on trademarking and ensuring the initiative’s commercial success.
Epstein’s emails also hinted at using Ferguson’s name to facilitate access to royal facilities. In 2009, he wrote to a couple: “fergie said she could organize tea in the buckingham palace apts.. or windsor castle.” While the actual visit is uncertain, these communications underscore the network of influence Epstein maintained through personal connections. The initiative, officially incorporated in October 2011 and dissolved in December 2016, had Ferguson listed as a director, according to public records.
CNN has contacted Ferguson’s representative for further comment.
