Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has been exposed for her extravagant spending habits that have led her into serious financial trouble, with debts reportedly reaching £3.7 million.
This financial turmoil comes amid a series of public scandals and the severing of ties by key charities following a controversial email leak involving her connection to Jeffrey Epstein.
Known for hosting lavish royal feasts reminiscent of King Henry VIII and frequently travelling via private jets, Ferguson’s lifestyle has been described as unsustainable. These extravagances have contributed to her mounting debts, which have sparked serious concerns within royal circles about her financial stability and future.
The maintenance costs of Royal Lodge, a stately home shared with her ex-husband Prince Andrew, have further strained her finances, costing millions annually to upkeep. To manage her debts and lifestyle, Ferguson has reportedly been forced to sell major assets, including a £4.2 million townhouse in Belgravia.
The revelation of the 2011 email praising Jeffrey Epstein devastated her charity work, leading to multiple organizations cutting patronage, drastically reducing her income sources. Despite attempts at various business ventures and public engagements, many failed to yield substantial earnings, deepening her financial woes.
Though the late Queen Elizabeth II had previously intervened to pay off some of Ferguson's debts, current demands exceed past estimates, leaving her in a precarious position. This saga highlights the challenges faced by royals without official funding and raises broader questions about financial management within the extended royal family.