Sarah Ferguson has been removed from her position as patron of a children’s hospice following the emergence of an email in which she described convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as a “supreme friend.” The email, dated April 26, 2011, was sent shortly after Ferguson publicly stated that she would sever all ties with Epstein.

According to reports, the email, disclosed by The Sun, contained an apology from the duchess to Epstein for connecting him with pedophilia in the media. Her message characterized Epstein as “steadfast” and “generous,” with her spokesperson later explaining that it was an attempt to pacify Epstein and address his threats.

In a separate interview in March 2011, Ferguson expressed remorse for accepting £15,000 from Epstein, emphasizing her strong stance against child abuse and acknowledging her error in judgment. She vowed to repay the money and vowed to completely disassociate herself from Epstein in the future.

Subsequent reports revealed that a month after her public statements, Ferguson sent a personal email to Epstein, expressing her fear and apologizing for letting him down. She mentioned being advised to avoid contact with him to prevent further complications for both parties.

Julia’s House, a children’s hospice in Dorset and Wiltshire, decided that Ferguson’s continued patronage was inappropriate in light of her correspondence with Epstein. In a statement, the hospice expressed gratitude for her past support but confirmed the termination of her role as patron.

Ferguson’s spokesperson clarified that Epstein had threatened legal action against her for defamation over their association. The spokesperson reiterated Ferguson’s regret over her past ties with Epstein and highlighted her public condemnation of him once she became aware of the allegations against him.

Epstein, who was awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges, was found dead in his jail cell in Manhattan in August 2019, with his death ruled a suicide.