Dormer Snubs Ferguson Series
Natalie Dormer Donates ‘The Lady’ Salary, Refuses to Promote Series Over Sarah Ferguson Controversy
Actor Natalie Dormer, who portrays the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, in the upcoming ITV and BritBox mini-series The Lady, has announced that she is donating her entire salary from the project to charities supporting victims of child abuse and will not participate in promoting the show. The decision comes after new revelations about Ferguson’s past connections surfaced.
The Lady explores the life of Jane Andrews, a former royal dresser who was convicted of murder, and also features Mia McKenna-Bruce in the titular role. The four-part series is directed by Lee Haven Jones, with a screenplay by Debbie O’Malley.
“When I took on the role, I understood that portraying Sarah Ferguson required nuance,” Dormer told a foreign publication. “People are complex, with highs and lows, and as an actor, my job is to bring that truthfully and empathetically to life.”
However, Dormer said recent information made it impossible for her to align her values with Ferguson’s actions. “Since completing the project, new information has come to light that I find inexcusable. For this reason, I will not take part in promoting the series,” she added. “In line with my commitment to children’s welfare, I have donated my entire salary to the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) and the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse.”
Her decision follows the recent release of a previously unpublished 2011 apology email from Ferguson to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In the email, Ferguson allegedly wrote, “I know you feel hellaciously let down by me from what you were either told or read, and I must humbly apologise to you and your heart… You have always been a steadfast, generous, and supreme friend to me and my family.”
Dormer’s move has sparked conversations about accountability and ethics in portraying public figures, particularly those linked to controversial histories.
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