Above the Conflict: How Duchess Sophie Maintained Neutrality Amid 'Internal Politics' of Princes William and Harry Feud
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, has "adeptly maintained neutrality" amid the well-documented rift between Princes William and Harry, a source shared.
HRH's approach has been characterized by a steadfast focus on her royal duties, steering clear of internal family conflicts.
According to royal commentator Katie Nicholl, Sophie is "a very popular member of the family because she's easy-going, there's never any drama, and she just gets on with the job, quietly and diligently."
"She was very supportive in those years when William and Prince Harry fell out and there were all the problems over him and Meghan leaving the country," Nicholl pointed out.
The Duchess' ability to remain impartial has been instrumental in preserving harmony within the royal household. By avoiding entanglement in familial disputes, she has earned the trust and respect of senior royals, including King Charles III. Nicholl emphasizes that Sophie is "a very safe pair of hands."
Her dedication is further exemplified by her increased workload, particularly during periods when other senior royals have faced health challenges. In September 2024, Sophie carried out 37 royal engagements, more than double her 18 engagements in the same month the previous year, sources revealed. This surge in activity highlights her willingness to step up when needed, ensuring the continuity of royal duties.
In recent months, Sophie has stepped up her royal duties, representing the King at various international events. Notably, she visited Tanzania as the Global Ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, celebrating collaborations in health, agriculture and women's empowerment.
Sophie's influence extends to her relationships with the royal family. She has been a steadfast supporter of Kate, Princess of Wales, especially during her future queen's health struggles. Their close bond is evident, with Sophie often providing guidance and companionship, as seen during her thoughtful gesture for an emotional Catherine at last year's Remembrance Sunday event.
Her commitment to charitable causes is further exemplified by her recent appointment as the royal patron of Plan International U.K. — a role previously held by the late Prince Philip. This patronage aligns with her advocacy for women's rights and efforts to address the impact of conflict on young women and girls, highlighting her dedication to humanitarian issues.
Sophie's approachable demeanor and willingness to engage with the public have also enhanced her popularity.
Sophie and Prince Edward, who is currently 14th in line to the throne, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in June 2024. The duo are also being praised for dedicating a quarter-century of their lives to the monarchy.
"Understated, unshowy, and as down-to-earth as you can be when you are born into the royal family," veteran royal reporter Jennie Bond stated when describing the now senior royals.
A then-Sophie Rhys-Jones and the royal first crossed paths in 1987, during a tennis event organized by the It's a Royal Knockout prince. However, their romantic relationship didn't begin until they met again in 1993 at a charity event.
GBN reported on Nicholl's remarks.