Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, has been described as leading an 'absolutely chaotic' lifestyle, according to biographer Andrew Lownie. He claims her demanding behavior has left staff feeling overwhelmed, with reports of employees weeping in toilets and quitting after just a few hours of work. Lownie highlights that Ferguson's unpredictable nature contributed to low morale and high turnover rates among her staff, many of whom struggled to cope with her capricious demands. He noted that her extravagant lifestyle often led to wasted food, as meals were prepared only for her to change her plans at the last minute.

Ferguson has also faced public scrutiny due to her past associations, particularly with her ex-husband, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, who has been embroiled in legal troubles. Lownie characterized Ferguson as 'very manipulative,' suggesting that her business ventures often aimed to exploit others financially. Amidst these challenges, she has retreated to the Swiss Alps, seeking solitude away from the media spotlight. This marks her first public appearance since September 2025, when she attended a funeral in London.