Author claims Duchess's secrets kept her close to the family after divorce from Andrew
Sarah Ferguson's enduring presence in royal circles may have less to do with loyalty and more to do with influence, according to claims in a new biography.
In Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, author Andrew Lownie alleges that the Duchess of York has remained connected to the royal family since her 1996 divorce from Andrew because she “possessed many secrets which would not benefit the House of Windsor by their retelling.”
The book, serialized by the Daily Mail, claims royal aides considered it safer to keep Ferguson close than risk her speaking out. Lownie writes that this “power” helped her secure a return invitation to Balmoral in 2002 — her first since the divorce — and contributed to her continued residence at Royal Lodge with Andrew. One insider is quoted as saying, “It is better to keep Sarah close than letting her loose to do even more damage.”
Although divorced, the pair have maintained a close friendship and continue to present a united front while raising their daughters. However, not all royals are reportedly comfortable with the arrangement. Lownie claims William has worked behind the scenes to have them removed from Royal Lodge, accusing Andrew of neglecting the property and misusing his position.
Entitled will be released on August 14.
