According to Page Six, the Duchess of York has effectively been left without a permanent home and has been relying on friends for a place to stay after losing her royal residence. However, finding somewhere to stay in New York has reportedly become difficult following the latest revelations connected to Jeffrey Epstein.
Friends offering temporary shelter
Sources claim that since Ferguson and her former husband, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, were forced to leave their royal residence, she has been moving between the homes of friends. One of those friends is said to include Priscilla Presley.
Although Ferguson and Andrew divorced back in 1996, the former Duke and Duchess of York continued living together for years at Royal Lodge in Windsor. That arrangement ended when Andrew was evicted from the property by his brother, King Charles, following his arrest related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Ferguson had previously spent significant time in New York and frequently stayed with friends there during visits. But the situation has changed dramatically.
New York doors closing
People who once welcomed Ferguson into their homes are now reportedly reluctant to offer their support. According to insiders, the recent release of emails connected to Epstein has made her presence feel politically and socially risky.
“Everyone’s telling her that now’s not a good time,” said an insider. “A lot of people actually really like her, but being associated with anyone associated with Epstein just isn’t wise right now.”
The source added that even longtime friends are hesitant to host her under the current circumstances.
Family concerns about reputation
Ferguson’s daughter Princess Eugenie currently lives in New York, but even that option appears complicated. Sources say both mother and daughter worry that Ferguson staying with her could damage the family’s reputation.
“Now that Andrew has lost his royal title, the girls [Eugenie and older sister Beatrice] are the only members of the family who are real royals,” said an insider. “It’s more important than ever for them to be kept as far away from the scandal as possible.”
The situation may also be strained by the resurfacing of an email Ferguson reportedly sent to Epstein, which read, “Just waiting for Eugenie to come back from a shagging weekend!!”
Newly revealed emails suggest Ferguson and Epstein had a close relationship at one point. In the messages, she allegedly referred to him as “the brother I have always wished for” and even joked several times that the two of them should get married.
These resurfaced communications have further complicated Ferguson’s public image and are believed to be contributing to the reluctance of friends and associates to publicly support her right now.
