The late billionaire Jeffrey Epstein received advice from a PR firm to steer clear of a relationship with then-Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson in an effort to repair his tarnished reputation. The counsel, found in documents from the recently-publicized Epstein files, was provided by Osborne & Partners LLP following Epstein’s conviction for child sex trafficking in 2008. The firm suggested highlighting Epstein’s charitable endeavors and scientific support while emphasizing the importance of avoiding associations with Andrew and Ferguson to facilitate his image restoration.
The document emphasized the negative impact of being linked to the “Prince Andrew/Sarah Ferguson, Bill Clinton Axis” in the UK media landscape and recommended distancing Epstein from the duo to reduce unwanted attention and facilitate a potential positive coverage shift. The advice underscored the need to disassociate from the couple, particularly in light of the Daily Mail’s alleged agenda against Prince Andrew. The strategic plan detailed a comprehensive approach to improving Epstein’s public perception, including reputation management on search engines, engaging experts, and securing favorable media coverage.
In addition to focusing on Epstein’s interests in science and technology, the advisors highlighted his potential involvement in long-term philanthropic goals, such as supporting initiatives like the Gates Foundation’s malaria eradication efforts. Despite these efforts, Epstein faced further legal troubles related to child sex trafficking in Manhattan in 2019 and subsequently died by suicide while in custody awaiting trial.
More recently, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson faced renewed scrutiny in the Epstein scandal as it was revealed that they maintained contact with Epstein despite previous claims of cutting ties. Fergie’s correspondence referred to Epstein as a close friend, expressing regret over past public statements following his earlier conviction. As repercussions of their association with Epstein, the couple was compelled to vacate the Royal Lodge, with Prince Andrew losing his titles and Sarah Ferguson being dropped by several charitable organizations due to the controversy.