Sarah Ferguson Drops Royal Title from Social Media After Prince Andrew’s Decision

Sarah Ferguson has removed her Duchess of York title from social media. The change comes just days after her former husband, Prince Andrew, announced he would no longer use his royal styles. This move signals a significant shift for the 66-year-old, widely known as Fergie.

Her X profile, formerly Twitter, was updated from @SarahTheDuchess to @sarahMFergie15. Her Instagram handle remains @SarahFerguson15, but all references to the duchess title have been scrubbed from her bios. According to Reuters, this follows coordinated discussions within the royal family.

Royal Titles Formally Relinquished in Palace Statement

Prince Andrew confirmed his decision on October 17. In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, he said ongoing accusations related to Jeffrey Epstein were a distraction. He stated he would no longer use his Duke of York title or associated honors.

The Duke had stepped back from public duties in 2019. This new action is seen as a permanent step away from any formal royal role. King Charles III was directly involved in the decision, confirming the family’s unified stance.

Life After Titles for the Former Duchess

Sarah Ferguson received her title from Queen Elizabeth II upon her marriage in 1986. She retained it even after her 1996 divorce. Her current action to distance herself from it publicly is a major break from that past.

Their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will keep their royal titles. They are both formally styled as “Her Royal Highness Princess.” This indicates the change applies only to their parents’ conferred titles, not their birthrights. The family is navigating a new, more private chapter.

This social media update solidifies a profound change for Sarah Ferguson. The former duchess is now publicly embracing a life beyond the royal title she held for decades.

Info at your fingertips

Why did Sarah Ferguson change her social media?

She updated her handles and bios to remove the Duchess of York title. This followed Prince Andrew’s own decision to stop using his royal styles.

Do Princess Beatrice and Eugenie keep their titles?

Yes, both daughters retain their official titles as HRH Princess. The changes only affect their parents’ conferred titles, not their inherited ones.

What did Prince Andrew’s statement say?

He stated the continued accusations about him were a distraction to the King’s work. He therefore decided to no longer use his title or honors.

Will Prince Andrew appear at future royal events?

Royal experts suggest his public appearances with the family are highly unlikely. He is expected to be absent from major events like the Christmas church walk.

Did King Charles approve this change?

Yes. Prince Andrew’s statement noted the decision was made “in discussion with The King” and his wider family, confirming royal approval.