Despite enduring heavy criticism from the media after her marriage to Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson managed to turn her hardships into opportunities for growth and success.
Hilary Fordwich, a royal expert, explained how the Duchess faced relentless scrutiny from the press, including being ridiculed for her weight and fashion choices. However, she was not the only royal to experience such treatment, and Fordwich emphasized the complex relationship between the royal family and the press.
Christopher Andersen, a royal author, highlighted the stark contrast between Ferguson and Princess Diana in the eyes of the media. While Diana struggled with an eating disorder, Ferguson was subjected to fat-shaming and mockery for years, which could have severely impacted her mental health.
In a recent appearance at the 92nd Street Y in New York to promote her book, "A Most Intriguing Lady," Ferguson acknowledged her mental health challenges and her efforts to hide them through pleasing others and gift-giving.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield praised the duchess for her resilience in the face of tabloid scrutiny, stating, "it also motivated her, and she turned that disappointment into dollars!" Schofield commended Ferguson for her adaptability and reinvention throughout the years.
Following her divorce from Prince Andrew in 1996, Ferguson found new purpose as a children's book author, QVC beauty product seller, and public speaker. Andersen noted her triumphant moment came when she lost 50 pounds and began appearing in Weight Watchers commercials.
Fordwich concluded that the media's constant hounding helped Ferguson grow stronger and carve out her own identity as an author, learning to ignore the press and focus on her own goals and passions.
Rare comments about relationship with Prince Andrew, and Future Plans
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has opened up about her close relationship with ex-husband Prince Andrew and his support for her creative endeavors.
The 63-year-old, who was married to Prince Andrew from 1986 to 1996, revealed that he has read all of her books and consistently offers encouragement. As she prepares for the release of her latest novel, "A Most Intriguing Lady," Ferguson shared her excitement about the possibility of her books being adapted into screen dramas.
Speaking to the Mirror, she disclosed, "We have been talking to production companies, and there is real interest in turning both novels into a period TV drama. I am so excited about it. I would love to see someone like Jess Buckley play my heroine."
Ferguson also expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support from her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. She mentioned that Prince Andrew "tells me [the books] are fabulous."
The former couple has maintained a strong friendship since their divorce 27 years ago, with both parents remaining devoted to their daughters. Their bond is built on friendship and family, as they've worked hard to provide a stable upbringing for their children despite their split.
Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson were married at Westminster Abbey in 1986, and their daughters were born in 1988 and 1990. By 1991, their marriage faced challenges due to Prince Andrew's naval career and rumors of infidelity. The couple decided to legally separate in 1992 and ultimately divorced in 1996.
In a 2011 Harper's Bazaar interview, Ferguson reflected on the divorce, saying she chose "friendship, not money" in her agreement with the Queen. She emphasized
