Royal author Andrew Lownie has publicly defended his recent assertions that Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, engaged in a sexual relationship with disgraced music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. The claims, which have sparked significant controversy, appear in Lownie’s 2025 book Entitled, which examines the lives of the Duke and Duchess of York.
In an extract from the updated paperback edition of Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York—scheduled for release on May 21—Lownie alleges that Combs boasted about a “friends with benefits” arrangement with Ferguson that reportedly began in 2004. The author claims that the pair met at a 2002 party hosted by Ghislaine Maxwell and subsequently met in various luxury hotels.
Lownie further alleges that a former employee at Combs’ Bad Boy Records claimed the rapper was fascinated by the British royal family and frequently bragged about his interactions with the Duchess. The book also suggests that Combs’ 2006 fragrance, “Unforgivable,” was inspired by Ferguson.
Addressing the backlash, Lownie stated: “I stand by it, it’s fully sourced with former employees of P Diddy and Sarah Ferguson.” He emphasized that his research relies on multiple accounts from those close to the individuals involved.
However, representatives close to the Duchess of York have vehemently denied the allegations. A source speaking to The Sunday Times dismissed the claims as “absolute fabricated nonsense” and “blatantly untrue.”
The allegations arrive amidst ongoing scrutiny surrounding Combs, who was sentenced last year to over four years in prison following his conviction on federal prostitution-related charges. The narrative also touches upon Ferguson’s past associations with the late Jeffrey Epstein, noting that the Duchess had previously faced criticism for her ties to the convicted sex offender.
Lownie’s work continues to draw attention for its candid and often critical look at the House of York, following the success of the hardback edition released last August. As the publication date for the paperback approaches, the debate over the veracity of these claims remains a point of contention between the author and the royal’s camp.
For help, advice or more information regarding sexual harassment, assault and rape in the UK, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN.