The charities linked to Sarah Ferguson moved quickly on Monday to distance themselves from her, but now the attention shifts to what may be more consequential to the Duchess of York and other members of her family: Ultimately money.
While the separation from her philanthropic work will no doubt feel incredibly painful, what happens to her business interests and how she funds her lifestyle has inevitably become a focus.
In recent years, with fewer negative stories appearing about the Duchess of York, she has settled into a life of public speaking engagements and writing books – both romance novels and, last year, a children’s book called “Flora and Fern”, with another one due out this year.
But a source at Waterstones, the bookshop, suggested “the publication date for her latest book has been moved”, adding “we will be in touch with the publisher to discuss existing stock”.
Read more:
Email another sign Epstein is a scandal the royals can’t shake
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
While the Royal Family had no comment on the latest revelations – simply reminding us all that she’s the ex-wife of a non-working royal – it’s not quite that simple.
The King’s agreement in recent years that she can join them for non-official family occasions, some of which we have seen in public, has felt like a significant shift towards an acceptance that she is still part of the royal fold.
Several charities cut ties with Duchess of York over Epstein email
Duchess of York’s email is another sign Epstein is a scandal the royals can’t shake
Duchess of York says gushing message to Epstein was not what it seemed
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
Will she now be absent from Sandringham at Christmas? You also have to remember she does live on the Windsor Estate, sharing the mansion, Royal Lodge, with her ex-husband, the Duke of York.
There have previously been calls for the King to get his brother evicted. But it’s understood Prince Andrew has a lease with the Crown Estate, meaning it would not necessarily be as easy for the monarch to force him to move.
But more interestingly, in the current climate, is how much Sarah Ferguson has been helping to pay for their accommodation, and will any loss of earnings mean they will be forced to downsize?
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Remember that Andrew does not receive any public money or taxpayer-funded security, and last year, the King stopped giving him any money that he was previously given by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
There was a huge amount of interest earlier this year about whether he was trying to use his former Pitch@Palace project to bring in extra funds.
Read more from Rhiannon Mills:
King’s light touch approach to Trump a masterclass
Big questions remain over Harry and William’s relationship
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
We have been here many times before, with stories blowing up over the past 15 years about their association with Jeffrey Epstein.
This time, Sarah Ferguson is feeling the painful repercussions and paying the price.
