Sir Richard Branson has publicly dismissed claims that Sarah Ferguson was hiding out on his private Caribbean island as fresh scrutiny engulfs her and ex-husband Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Yesterday, a spokesman for the Virgin tycoon shut down reports suggesting Fergie was secretly staying up on his Necker Island retreat in the British Virgin Islands. 

The spokesman said: “Sir Richard has had no contact with Sarah Ferguson following the release of the Epstein files and, contrary to some media reports, can confirm she is not on Necker Island either.” The rumours emerged over the weekend following heightened media attention around the Royal Family after the release of a further tranche of documents linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The newly released batch of documents includes references to a number of high-profile figures, among them include: Andrew 65, Ms Ferguson, 66, Mr Branson, 75, as well as the likes of President Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and Elon Musk.

While appearing in the files does not imply guilt or wrongdoing, the disclosures have renewed public attention on those previously associated with Epstein, including the King’s brother.

Speculation suggested the former Duchess may have left the UK in recent days, with claims she was overseas or had sought refuge on Necker Island.

The reports gained traction partly because Ms Ferguson has previously holidayed on Necker Island, as have her daughters, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice.

The denial comes as renewed attention surrounds Andrew following the publication of millions of pages of documents by the US Department of Justice last week.

Among the files released were emails in which Sir Richard Branson appeared to joke about Epstein’s “harem”.

The exchange in question dates back to September 2013 and took place after Epstein visited Branson’s home in the British Virgin Islands.

At the time, Epstein had referred to a group of adult women travelling with him using a phrase he had previously employed, which Branson later echoed in a reply.

In response, a spokesperson for the Virgin Group said Sir Richard had used the wording “regrettably” and without any awareness of the full extent of Epstein’s criminal behaviour. They stressed that, had Branson been aware of what later came to light, he would not have associated with Epstein at all.

The developments have also coincided with changes to Andrew’s new living arrangements, which were bought forward.

He left Royal Lodge at Windsor Great Park days earlier than anticipated, with plan allegedly accelerated by the King. Andrew made a late night dash without spectacle, as belongings were quietly loaded and transported to Norfolk overnight.

Meanwhile, Ms Ferguson’s current living arrangements remain unclear, after Buckingham Palace confirmed in 2025 that Andrew had been formally served notice to surrender his lease, it is reported she is making her own arrangements.