King Charles asks Andrew and Sarah Ferguson to step back, leaving their daughters caught in the middle
King Charles has reportedly delivered an ultimatum to Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, one that could affect their daughters in a deeply personal way. The Duke and Duchess of York have been told to remain “invisible” during the upcoming royal Christmas gathering, though their daughters are still welcome, according to The Times.
This move has placed Beatrice and Eugenie in a difficult position. While they have not been excluded from family events, royal author Phil Dampier told The Daily Mail that the sisters may feel it would be unfair to attend without their parents. “If it turns out they are not invited, or decide themselves not to go, then it makes it very difficult for Beatrice and Eugenie,” Dampier said. “They may feel it simply rubs salt in their parents’ wounds.”
The King is said to have a soft spot for his nieces and sympathises with the situation, but with Christmas only weeks away, the sisters are under pressure to decide where they stand.
The tension follows renewed scrutiny of Sarah Ferguson, after her past correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein resurfaced. Several charities have since distanced themselves from her, compounding the difficulties already surrounding Prince Andrew’s reputation. With the Yorks under growing strain, Beatrice and Eugenie’s choice could determine how closely they remain tied to the royal fold.
