As King Charles continues his efforts to slim down the monarchy, two royals have quietly risen to prominence and insiders say their influence is only just beginning.
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, and his wife, Duchess Sophie, have stepped up as reliable pillars of the Royal Family, providing crucial support during one of the institution’s most challenging periods. But according to royal experts, their roles could become even more powerful once Prince William ascends to the throne.
Royal expert Jennie Bond spoke candidly with The Mirror, offering rare insight into just how indispensable Edward and Sophie have become — and why they may hold the keys to the monarchy’s future stability.
“Sophie is a diamond,” Bond said, showering the Duchess of Edinburgh with praise. “Unpretentious, down to earth – often does her own make-up and even drives herself to her engagements.”
Unlike some royals who are constantly in the spotlight, Sophie has built a reputation for her low-key but impactful work. “She’s the easiest person in the world to chat with and doesn’t seem bothered about attracting headlines. Sometimes her visits aren’t even flagged up to the press,” Bond added.
It’s this humble, hard-working approach that has endeared Sophie to both the public and insiders at the palace. But it’s not just Sophie who’s earning praise — Prince Edward has also proven himself to be a steady, dependable force, especially as King Charles leans more on a small circle of trusted family members.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh officially assumed their elevated titles last year, and since then, they’ve taken on a growing portfolio of royal duties. As the monarchy faces a shrinking roster of senior working royals, their dedication has become essential.
“Recently, though, as they assumed their very senior positions as Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, we have learned more about their work and I think they’re getting some of the recognition they deserve,” Bond explained.
What makes Edward and Sophie particularly valuable is their focus on the causes they champion rather than personal publicity. “Like other members of the royal family, they’re not fussed about having publicity about themselves: what they want is publicity about the causes and charities they are supporting.”
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This selfless mindset may be exactly what the monarchy needs as it braces for the future. With King Charles continuing his cancer treatment and Kate Middleton still in recovery, the royal workload has fallen heavily on the shoulders of just a few senior members.
Insiders believe that Edward and Sophie’s roles will only grow as Prince William eventually steps into his father’s shoes. “They, in turn, will continue to play an important role in supporting King Charles, and then King William. And, for the next decade or two at least, I think we shall be seeing more and more of Edward and Sophie,” Bond predicted.
Their steady rise comes at a time of great uncertainty for the monarchy. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remain estranged from the family, Prince Andrew continues to stay sidelined following his scandal, and both King Charles and Princess Kate are battling serious health challenges.
In this increasingly fragile royal landscape, Edward and Sophie’s no-drama, work-focused approach has earned them growing admiration from both the public and palace officials.
Sophie’s charm, in particular, has not gone unnoticed. As one of Queen Elizabeth II’s reported “favorites,” she long held a special place within the late monarch’s inner circle. Now, she’s becoming a critical part of the next generation’s plan to keep the monarchy relevant and respected.
While much attention remains fixed on William and Kate as the future King and Queen, experts suggest that behind-the-scenes players like Edward and Sophie will be just as vital in ensuring the monarchy’s survival in a rapidly changing world.
As Prince William’s reign inches closer with each passing year, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are quietly building the foundation of the monarchy’s next chapter — and their star is only set to shine brighter.
