New ITV series on Sarah Ferguson sparks renewed interest amid scandal
Natalie Dormer has opted out of publicity for ITV’s new series The Lady, which dramatizes the true story of Sarah Ferguson’s former assistant Jane Andrews, who was charged with murder in 2001. Dormer has also donated her fee to charity, a decision that may reflect the complexities surrounding the series’ release in light of recent controversies, reports BritPanorama.
The four-part series portrays events surrounding Andrews and Ferguson’s relationship, potentially offering insights into an interesting moment in recent history. Under different circumstances, the show might have garnered attention for its storytelling alone. However, ongoing scrutiny of Ferguson’s connections—particularly emails linked to financier Jeffrey Epstein—adds a layer of complexity that changes the conversation around the portrayal.
While Ferguson’s public image has waned since the early ’90s, the series’ timing places it in the center of public interest due to renewed media focus on the duchess. As the narrative unfolds on-screen, viewers may find it challenging to separate the dramatization from the surrounding real-life scandal, particularly given Dormer’s sympathetic interpretation of Ferguson, portraying her as a nuanced character trapped between personal agency and public expectation.
Despite this, Dormer’s nuanced performance may improve audience empathy towards Ferguson. Yet, her decision to distance herself is understandable given the current context. The actress highlighted her conflict, stating, “new information has come to light that makes it impossible for me to reconcile my values with Sarah Ferguson’s behaviour, which I believe is inexcusable.” Her role, complemented by a talented cast, was initially seen as a chance to reframe Ferguson’s narrative; however, escalating tension surrounding recent disclosures complicates this objective.
Despite the challenges faced over the past year, including public backlash, Dormer’s work may attract unforeseen viewership. The Lady has the potential to benefit from the notoriety now surrounding Ferguson, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of public response. Ironically, the ongoing discussions about Ferguson’s past could lead to increased interest in the series, revealing the thin line actors walk between their craft and the reputations of the figures they portray.
The Lady starts tonight at 9pm on ITV1. The full series is streaming on ITVX.
