Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie: Quietly Carrying the Royal Torch
Though Prince Edward and his wife Sophie have traditionally kept a low public profile, the Duchess of Edinburgh recently opened up about the emotional depth behind her royal title, how her responsibilities have evolved, and what it means to be called the Royal Family’s “secret weapon.”
Continuing a Royal Tradition
During a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina marking the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, Sophie reflected on the legacy she inherited by taking on the title of Duchess of Edinburgh—one previously held by Queen Elizabeth II.
Speaking to The Mirror, she shared, “It was quite a large shoe to fill… the Queen was Duchess of Edinburgh in the early years after she married my father-in-law.” Before ascending the throne, the late Queen held the same title Sophie now bears.
Describing the transition, Sophie admitted, “For me, it was quite an emotional thing to step into her shoes… it felt like quite a big moment.”
Navigating Royal Duty and Private Life
Sophie and Edward have long managed to strike a thoughtful balance between public duty and personal life. On their position within the royal family, Sophie noted,
“Our job is to support the King, just as it was to support the Queen… We’re lucky not to always be in the spotlight, which gives us space to follow our interests while still being ready when the King needs us.”
She explained that her recent visit to Bosnia was also connected to her personal passions, showing how royal service and individual interest can align.
“We’re here to support—and that will always be the case,” she affirmed.
The Royal Family’s Quiet Powerhouse
Sophie’s years of quiet dedication have earned her the reputation as “the Royal Family’s secret weapon.” Addressing the moniker with a smile, she said,
“I like staying under the radar. But being a secret weapon doesn’t help much if nobody knows—it might be too secret!”
Commenting on her growing visibility, she added, “There are fewer of us doing this now… so I guess I’m not so secret anymore. I do wonder what label they’ll come up with next!”
Rising to a Greater Role
While often outside the media glare, both Sophie and Edward have played consistent, reliable roles within the monarchy.
As the number of active royals decreases, their work is becoming more prominent.
According to The Sun, royal experts believe the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh may soon take on a higher-profile presence—potentially stepping in to help fill the space left by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from royal duties.
