Monarch under pressure to act amid scandals shaking family image
King Charles is facing a difficult decision as he weighs how to handle the future of Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. The monarch, currently at his residence near Balmoral Castle, has summoned Prince William for private talks, with both expected to reach a resolution over the pair’s ongoing presence within the royal fold.
Charles has long been at odds with his brother over a string of scandals, from ties to Jeffrey Epstein and allegations from Virginia Giuffre to his involvement in a Chinese spy controversy. The King has pushed for Andrew’s removal from the 30-room Royal Lodge, but fears of retaliation have delayed action. Palace insiders believe Andrew may be prepared to reveal damaging secrets if forced out, potentially more harmful than Harry’s memoir.
William urges stronger action
Sources suggest William has taken a firmer stance than the King, arguing that Andrew and Ferguson undermine the monarchy’s image and should be distanced from the institution. Charles is now said to be aligning with his heir’s view, aware that their continued presence damages public perception and fuels pressure on the family to act decisively.
This shift would be a particular blow for Ferguson, who enjoyed the late Queen Elizabeth’s support before her passing in 2022.
Ferguson’s damaged reputation
The Duchess of York has faced criticism over her connections to Epstein. In a 2011 interview, she publicly condemned him, calling her involvement a “gigantic error.” Yet, emails later revealed her referring to the disgraced financier as a “steadfast, generous and supreme friend.”
Despite her claims that the correspondence was sent under legal threat, the fallout was swift. Seven charities cut ties with her, eroding much of the goodwill she had tried to rebuild.
