Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has seen her patronage and ambassadorships with multiple charitable organizations terminated following the resurfacing of a 2011 email in which she described financier Jeffrey Epstein as a "steadfast, generous and supreme friend." This sentiment has drawn significant criticism, especially in light of her public denouncement of Epstein in the same year.
Several prominent charities have announced the end of their association with the Duchess. Julia's House, a children's hospice, stated it was "inappropriate" for Ferguson to continue her role. Similarly, the Teenage Cancer Trust, which had a 35-year relationship with the Duchess, has also ended its patronage. Other organizations severing ties include Prevent Breast Cancer, The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, and The Children's Literacy Charity.
Ferguson's spokesperson explained that the 2011 email was sent under legal advice, following threats of a defamation lawsuit from Epstein. The spokesperson reiterated Ferguson's condemnation of Epstein and expressed regret over their past connection, stating that she was "taken in by his lies" and that her first thoughts were always with his victims. The email was reportedly an attempt to "assuage Epstein and his threats" after a "chilling" phone call and legal threats.
In a March 2011 interview with the Evening Standard, Ferguson had expressed deep regret over her association with Epstein, stating, "I abhor paedophilia and any sexual abuse of children and know that this was a gigantic error of judgment on my behalf." She had also added, "Whenever I can, I will repay the money and have nothing ever to do with Jeffrey Epstein ever again." The recent fallout intensifies scrutiny of Ferguson's past links to Epstein, drawing parallels to the scandal involving her ex-husband, Prince Andrew.