The royal family has once again found itself at the center of scandal — this time involving Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.

A resurfaced email from 2011, in which Ferguson referred to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein as her “supreme friend,” has reignited public criticism. The revelation comes years after she publicly condemned Epstein, leaving many questioning her sincerity and judgment.

King Charles Reportedly “In Despair” Over Ferguson’s Actions

According to royal commentator Jennie Bond, King Charles is said to be deeply disappointed by the resurfaced email. Speaking to The Mirror, Bond said she imagines the monarch “with his head in his hands” upon learning of the revelation.

“I think Charles will be in despair over this,” she explained. “He has tried to be a decent ex-brother-in-law and include Sarah in family gatherings, after her years of exile. He has undoubtedly felt a kindred sympathy over her cancer problems and, in Sarah’s own words, he has been kind.”

However, Bond warned that Ferguson’s renewed association with Epstein could pose a serious reputational risk to the monarchy — particularly at a time when King Charles is striving to maintain public trust.

Prince William Keeps His Distance

While the King may still feel compassion for his former sister-in-law, Prince William reportedly holds a much firmer stance. Bond noted that the Prince of Wales has always been wary of reintegrating Ferguson and Prince Andrew into royal life, and this latest controversy has likely reinforced his caution.

During recent public events — including the funeral of the Duchess of Kent — William was said to have kept a deliberate distance from the Duke and Duchess of York. “I think William has always been more suspicious about allowing Andrew and Sarah back into the fold,” Bond stated. “And I suspect he will now be extremely reluctant to share even private family occasions with either of them.”

“A Toxic Brand” Threatening the Crown’s Reputation

In another interview with iPaper, Bond was even more direct, calling Ferguson “a toxic brand,” much like her ex-husband, Prince Andrew. She added, “There is undoubtedly more to come about the Yorks’ association with Jeffrey Epstein, and the whole tasteless tale still threatens to contaminate the monarchy.”

Her comments echo those of historian Andrew Lownie, who told Marie Claire that Ferguson has long been the “Houdini of the royal family” — managing to escape scandal time and again — but warned she may finally be “running out of lives.”

Beatrice and Eugenie Caught in the Crossfire

The fallout continues to affect Ferguson’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who remain burdened by the shadow of their parents’ controversies. “Anyone with a heart must surely feel sorry for them,” Bond said, sympathizing with the two princesses’ difficult position.

In her defense, Ferguson has claimed that the email was written under duress. Her spokesperson, James Henderson, told reporters that Epstein had threatened “to destroy the York family” after she spoke out against him publicly. Despite this explanation, the apology has done little to repair her reputation.

Following renewed public scrutiny, several charities have quietly dropped the Duchess as their patron — signaling that, more than a decade later, her connection to Epstein continues to cast a long and damaging shadow over her and the royal family.