Sarah Ferguson, former Duchess of York, shares insights into her enduring relationship with Prince Andrew. Despite their divorce, they remain close, living together and supporting each other through scandals. Ferguson reflects on love, challenges, and the public's scrutiny while maintaining her loyalty to the Duke of York.
- Fergie still has love for Prince Andrew
- THESE are her reflections on marriage and public life
- She speaks on recent controversies surrounding him
Sarah Ferguson's unwavering support for Andrew
Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as Fergie, has always maintained a strong bond with her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, despite their divorce in 1996. Reflecting on their marriage, Fergie expressed that she was "totally and utterly in love" with the Duke of York when they wed in 1986.
The Duchess of York "would do it all over again, 100 percent," she told The Sunday Times of marrying the prince. "He’s the best, a great man with a great heart, and kind. Our wedding was the best day of my life."
She added, "But I gave up my anonymity that day. I was able to because love conquers all. It’s still with us today. I won’t let him down. He supports me as much as I support him. He’s supported me through thick and thin, not just marriage or divorce. We agree on the three Cs – communication, compromise, compassion."
The couple, who share two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, continue to live together at the Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate, showcasing their enduring friendship and mutual support.
Fergie candidly discussed the challenges she faced during her marriage, including the loss of anonymity and the intense public scrutiny.
She reminisced about the attention she received as a royal, noting that it was "addictive." However, she also faced criticism, particularly regarding her weight, which she attributed to emotional eating and postnatal depression.
Despite these challenges, she fondly remembers the Queen's advice: "Sarah, remember that yourself is good enough." Fergie emphasized the importance of the "three Cs" in her relationship with Andrew: communication, compromise, and compassion, which have helped them maintain their close bond over the years.
"I think what I did wrong was I got lost, probably trying to be like Diana," she said. "I was an addict to food. The fact I could eat my emotions was the only thing that saved my life.
"I was huge, more than 14 stone when I had Beatrice in 1988, and I think I had postnatal depression. Everybody said, ‘You’re the Duchess of Pork,’ and I believed my critics. But the Queen never lost me. The best advice she gave me was the last thing she said to me: ‘Sarah, remember that yourself is good enough.’ It makes me cry."
Prince Andrew's reputation has been marred by his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of sexual assault. These controversies led to the stripping of his military affiliations and royal patronages in January 2022.
She's been by his side
Andrew’s scandalous association with Epstein, which came to public attention in 2019, has had a significant impact on his reputation and standing within the British royal family. The controversy worsened with the 2019 BBC interview in which Andrew attempted to defend his actions, which led to widespread criticism and calls for him to step back from royal duties.
The most serious accusation was that Andrew had been involved in sexual abuse of Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's alleged victims, though he has consistently denied these claims. In February 2022, the case was settled in court, with Andrew agreeing to a financial settlement but not admitting any wrongdoing.
In the wake of these scandals, Sarah Ferguson has been notably supportive of her ex-husband. Despite their divorce in 1996, they have maintained a close relationship and have continued to co-parent their two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
Fergie has repeatedly expressed her loyalty to Andrew, standing by him during the public fallout from the scandal. She has publicly stated that she believes in his innocence, defending him in various interviews and social media posts.
Her role has often been seen as one of emotional and personal support, particularly as Andrew faced legal battles and public scrutiny. At times, she has attempted to balance her own public persona, which has also been under its own scrutiny at various points in her life, with standing by her ex-husband.
Fergie has maintained that she is there for Andrew as a family member, highlighting the importance of loyalty and protecting family bonds in times of adversity.
However, her support has not been without controversy. Some have criticized her for seemingly downplaying the severity of the allegations against Prince Andrew.
Her public statements and continued closeness to him, particularly in light of the settlements and legal outcomes, have sparked debate about whether she is enabling his behavior or if she is simply offering compassion and solidarity in a time of crisis.
At the same time, Sarah Ferguson’s role in the royal family has evolved over the years, and she has worked to carve out her own identity, separate from her connection to Prince Andrew.
She has built a successful career as an author, television personality, and charity advocate. Her strong connection to the British public, which has often seen her as a relatable figure, allows her to maintain a certain level of popularity despite the controversies surrounding her ex-husband.
Most recently, Andrew's ties with an alleged Chinese spy, Yang Tengbo, have further complicated his public image.
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While her loyalty to Andrew has drawn some criticism, it reflects her longstanding commitment to family, regardless of the public backlash. Her position highlights the complex and sometimes contradictory dynamics within the royal family and the complicated legacy of her relationship with Prince Andrew.
Despite these scandals, Fergie has remained steadfast in her support for Andrew, stating, "I won’t let him down. He supports me as much as I support him." The former couple will not join the royal family for Christmas celebrations at Sandringham House, following the latest scandal.
