Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s ‘toxic’ legacy could destroy Fergie | Royal | News
Sarah Ferguson is reportedly trying to chart an independent path after years spent in close relations with her ex-husband, the ex-Prince Andrew, according to royal commentators.
The couple continued to live together for years after their divorce, with Sarah once describing them as “the happiest divorced couple in the world”. However, reports suggest that the duo’s long-standing alliance has weakened following Andrew’s fall from public life.
Royal biographer Andrew Lownie, author of Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, claimed that the relationship between the two had become increasingly strained.
He said: “They’ve kind of come together, they’re against the world, and that’s clearly now torn apart.
“I think he thinks it’s toxic and will destroy his branding opportunities, so it’s time for him to strike out on his own.”
Why is Sarah Ferguson reportedly avoiding ex Prince Andrew?
According to a report from Hello! Royal experts believe Sarah is now trying to distance herself from the disgraced Andrew as concerns grow about the impact of his reputation on her own public image.
Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, suggested that Sarah’s opinion of Andrew had changed over time.
Speaking to HELLO!, she said: “He embarrassed her with the way he spoke to people and I think he lost respect for her.
“He’s a very charming person and would never speak down to someone he thought was beneath him, but Andrew did it and he hated it. He was so clueless.”
Despite the reported tension, the former couple continued to make occasional public appearances together over the past year.
When was the last time Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson were seen together?
Andrew and Sarah attended the funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, at Westminster Cathedral on 16 September 2025. This incident was the last time they were photographed together in public places.
The couple also attended the christening of their granddaughter Athena, Princess Beatrice’s youngest daughter, at St James’s Palace on 12 December 2025.
Over the years, the unusual living arrangements attracted much attention after the divorced couple continued to share the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park.
Speaking previously to USA Today, Sarah explained: “We live in the same house but it’s a big house so it’s okay.
“But I think it’s a really good thing that we believe in compromise, communication, compassion and family.”
Where does Prince Andrew live now?
In February this year, Andrew reportedly handed over the keys to Royal Lodge before moving permanently to Marsh Farm on the King’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
The Royal Lodge held decades of family memories for the York family and was where Princess Beatrice and Eugenie spent much of their childhood.
The facility also hosts Queen Elizabeth II. It has also become a favorite meeting place for the couple’s grandchildren, who enjoy playing in the historic Wendy’s house, which was gifted to Elizabeth when she was a child.
