Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew are preparing to live apart for the first time in over 20 years, as they vacate Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate by January 25. The couple, who finalised their divorce in 1996 but continued living together, have been described as the 'happiest divorced couple'. However, Andrew's loss of royal titles and lease on the 30-room mansion has forced them to separate.
A source told Hello! Magazine that Ferguson is 'ready to spread her wings' and will not move with Andrew to his new home on the Sandringham Estate. She is considering options including her daughter Eugenie's home in Portugal. The source added that Andrew has stopped reading newspapers and is 'in his own bubble', while Ferguson remains upset about the situation.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond believes the pair will remain close due to their shared daughters and grandchildren, as well as recent scandals. 'Unless Fergie knows something about her ex-husband that we don't, I think she'll continue to be part of his life,' Bond told the Mirror. She noted that they have 'shared so much, good and bad' that it is hard to see them ever being truly divorced.
Andrew is expected to move to Marsh Farm on the King's Norfolk estate, though Buckingham Palace has not confirmed. Bond said he will not face hardship, as he will be looked after by his brother and have staff. 'All he has to do is to work out how to fill his days,' she said, suggesting horse riding, shooting or video games. Bond also speculated that Andrew might divide his time between Sandringham and the Middle East, where he still has wealthy connections.
Since Andrew was stripped of his titles in October, allegations about his association with Jeffrey Epstein have continued to emerge. Bond described it as 'squeaky bum time' for Andrew and the royal family, as they await potential revelations from the Epstein files.
