SHE'S endured scrutiny and scandal and been mocked for her weight and style to such an extent she suffered mental-health issues and eating disorders.
But Sarah, Duchess of York, aka Fergie, wants the world to know she finally feels comfortable in her own skin and free to speak her mind.
“It ’s liberating,” the 63-year-old says. “It’s like I ’ve taken the mental shackles out of my brain.
“I don’t know whether it’s the queen passing on that I now think I can just sort of say openly what I want to say without worrying I’m going to offend somebody.”
And Fergie has been saying plenty lately as she goes on the publicity trail to promote her latest book, A Most Intriguing Lady – a sweeping historical romance that follows Lady Mary, an aristocrat by day and amateur detective by night.
It’s her second novel for adults after Her Heart for a Compass, which was released in 2021 and is based on the story of her great-great-aunt Lady Margaret Montagu Douglas Scott – a tale she says took 15 years to get out of her head and onto the page.
But Fergie found this one far easier to write, probably because it’s based on herself.
“Lady Mary is me,” she told breakfast show Good Morning America. “She’s cheeky, she’s feisty, she’s rebellious.”
Which does pretty much sum up the fiery redhead. Controversial, characterful, out-there and often overthe-top, she’s in a league of her own – but at the core of it all is a woman with a big heart and one mission in life: to be kind.
“When people ask me what religion I am, I say kindness,” she says.
This story is from the 23 March 2023 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 23 March 2023 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE MICHAEL'S ANGELS
The king of pop's kids are a close-knit trio who guard their privacy fiercely
BARBIES ON THE GO!
Sending their dolls 'travelling' around the country started as way to escape everyday life during the pandemic and four years later they're still going strong
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
These musician decided to pack up their lives and trek across the country - with three kids in tow!
TALES FROM THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR
After 40 years in Tinseltown, filmmaker Ed Zwick is spilling the beans about the stars with the biggest egos in his tell-all memoir - and he doesn't regret a thing
India's national election
SOUTH Africa isn't the only country holding an election this year - America and India, among others, are also heading to the polls. Most countries hold elections every five years, and it typically takes place one day before the votes are counted.
IS YOUR BRA HARMING YOUR HEALTH?
Wearing the wrong bra size can cause more than discomfort - a poor fit can lead to bigger problems
MY STORY IS ONE OF HOPE
She was born with a rare condition that affects her muscles but it hasn't stopped Kerry from getting a degree or writing a book
DEATH FROM ABOVE
Drones, like the one used to kill seven aid workers in Gaza, are becoming common in battlefields
FINALLY I'M FREE
IT STARTED innocently enough, with a Bible study group, scripture readings and prayers in the suburbs of Centu rion.
CONJOINED IN HOLY MATRIMONY
Abby and Brittany have again sparked public interest after Abby's 2021 wedding recently made headlines