Leaked Emails Surface from 2011
Emails reportedly sent by Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in April 2011 have been published by the Mail on Sunday and The Sun. The correspondence reveals Ferguson apologizing to Epstein and referring to him as a 'steadfast, generous and supreme friend' . This revelation comes weeks after she had publicly disavowed him in a widely reported interview.
Public Condemnation Preceded Private Apology
The leaked emails directly contradict public statements made by the Duchess just weeks prior. In a March 7, 2011 interview with the Evening Standard, Ferguson had expressed deep regret over her association with Epstein, calling it a 'gigantic error of judgment' . She emphatically stated, 'I abhor paedophilia and any sexual abuse of children' and vowed never to have anything to do with him again . This public distancing followed earlier reports that Epstein had provided £15,000 to help settle her debts . Epstein had been previously jailed in 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor .
Content of the Controversial Correspondence
Dated April 26, 2011, the email reportedly contained Ferguson's apology to Epstein, stating: 'I know you feel hellaciously let down by me from what you were either told or read and I must humbly apologise to you and your heart for that' . She further wrote, 'You have always been a steadfast, generous and supreme friend to me and my family' . The Duchess also reportedly clarified that she 'did not, absolutely not, say the 'P word' about you' and suggested her public comments were made under advisement to protect her career as a children's book author and philanthropist .
Duchess's Spokesperson Explains Context
A spokesperson for Sarah Ferguson has addressed the leaked emails, asserting that the message was not an endorsement of Epstein but rather a strategic response to threats. According to the spokesperson, Epstein had threatened to sue the Duchess for defamation following her public condemnation . The email was reportedly sent 'in the context of advice the duchess was given to try to assuage Epstein and his threats' . The spokesperson reiterated that Ferguson stands by her public statements condemning Epstein and that her primary concern remains with his victims, adding that she, 'like many people, was taken in by lies' .
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
The optics of these emails are terrible for Sarah Ferguson, making her appear insincere in her condemnation of Epstein. Yet, dealing with a manipulative individual like Epstein often involves complex strategies, which might include feigned loyalty to protect oneself or others.
Loubianka
It's easy to judge from afar. She was likely manipulated just like others.
Eugene Alta
It's deeply disturbing to read those words from her to Epstein, especially after her public stance. While her spokesperson's explanation of threats offers a potential reason, it doesn't fully excuse the emotional language used, which makes it hard for the public to accept her innocence.
Michelangelo
The spokesperson's explanation makes perfect sense. It was a tactical move to protect herself.
Africa
Many people will see this as clear evidence of her complicity or at least her willingness to overlook his crimes for personal gain. On the other hand, the idea that Epstein would threaten her for defamation isn't far-fetched, making her response potentially a self-preservation tactic, however ill-advised.