10 Key Facts About Sarah Ferguson Amid Latest Business Closures and Epstein Revelations

Sarah Ferguson, the 66-year-old former Duchess of York commonly known as Fergie, remains a polarizing figure in British public life. Once a vibrant member of the royal family through her marriage to Prince Andrew, she has faced ongoing scrutiny, particularly following recent revelations tied to Jeffrey Epstein. As six of her companies face dissolution and her charity closes amid renewed Epstein file disclosures, here are 10 essential things to know about her life, career and current circumstances.

1. Royal Marriage and Divorce Ferguson married Prince Andrew on July 23, 1986, at Westminster Abbey, becoming the Duchess of York. The couple had two daughters: Princess Beatrice (born 1988) and Princess Eugenie (born 1990). They separated in 1992 amid tabloid scandals, including infamous photos of Ferguson with financial adviser John Bryan. Their divorce finalized in 1996, but they have remained close, often living together at Royal Lodge until recent years. Ferguson has described their post-divorce relationship as supportive.
2. Nicknamed “Fergie” The red-haired Ferguson earned the affectionate nickname “Fergie” early in her royal tenure. It stuck through media coverage of her outgoing personality, which contrasted with the more reserved royal style. She embraced the moniker in books, interviews and public appearances.
3. Health Battles with Cancer In 2023, Ferguson was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer, undergoing a single mastectomy. In early 2024, doctors discovered malignant melanoma during reconstructive surgery follow-up. She has spoken openly about the diagnoses feeling like a “death sentence” or “a bomb going off in my life.” Treatment continued into 2025, with no major public updates in 2026 indicating recurrence, though she has advocated for cancer awareness, including with the Teenage Cancer Trust (from which she later parted ways).
4. Prolific Author and Media Career After her divorce, Ferguson built a career as an author, penning children’s books like the “Little Red” series and historical novels. She has written memoirs, including “My Story” (1996) and more recent works on wellness and resilience. She has appeared on television, hosted documentaries and engaged in podcasting, often discussing personal challenges and philanthropy.
5. Philanthropy and Charity Work Ferguson founded Sarah’s Trust to support vulnerable children and families internationally. She championed causes like children’s health, education and anti-bullying. However, in February 2026, the charity announced it would close “for the foreseeable future” after discussions predating recent controversies. Several charities, including Teenage Cancer Trust, revoked her patronage in 2025 amid Epstein-related fallout.
6. Business Ventures Facing Closure In mid-February 2026, Companies House documents revealed six companies where Ferguson serves as sole director are being wound down: S Phoenix Events, Fergie’s Farm, La Luna Investments, Solamoon Ltd, Philanthrepreneur Ltd and Planet Partners Productions Ltd. The moves follow no public activity for these entities and coincide with Epstein file scrutiny. Applications to strike them off were filed recently, with closures expected soon unless challenged.
7. Ties to Jeffrey Epstein Newly released U.S. Department of Justice Epstein files in late January and early 2026 resurfaced emails and messages showing Ferguson’s communications with the convicted sex offender. One alleged 2010-2011 email depicted her pleading for a “house assistant” role, citing desperate financial need. She reportedly called Epstein “the brother I have always wished for.” While inclusion in files does not imply wrongdoing, the revelations intensified public and media pressure.
8. Financial Pressures and Lifestyle Experts describe Ferguson as facing significant financial strain, with comments like “she needs the money” from royal biographer Andrew Lownie. Reports suggest she has told friends of needing to work and distancing from ex-husband Andrew. She has lived modestly in recent years, sharing Royal Lodge before recent moves.
9. Current Whereabouts and Low Profile Ferguson has not appeared publicly since September 2025. Reports place her in the French Alps, then the United Arab Emirates (UAE), possibly meeting daughter Princess Eugenie. Speculation includes stays in Qatar or Portugal. Amid Andrew’s reported arrest developments and Epstein fallout, she maintains a low profile, with some sources noting plans for a UK return but emphasizing independence.
10. Family Focus and Resilience Despite controversies, Ferguson remains close to daughters Beatrice and Eugenie, both mothers themselves—making her a grandmother multiple times. She has expressed joy in family milestones and credits resilience from personal hardships, including her mother’s departure when she was 12. Observers note her ability to rebound, though current challenges test that reputation.

As Epstein-related disclosures continue to ripple, Ferguson’s story underscores themes of public scrutiny, financial independence and personal reinvention. She has no official royal role but retains the style “Sarah, Duchess of York” courtesy of her former marriage. Friends describe her as determined to rebuild amid adversity.