In a recent revelation, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, passionately defended her and Prince Edward‘s roles within the royal family.
This came in response to questions about whether they would take on additional responsibilities following the departures of other high-profile royals like Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Prince Andrew.
When queried about stepping up, Sophie’s response was both pointed and revealing.
She quipped, “What did people think we did before?” This remark highlights her commitment and ongoing contributions to royal duties, a sentiment echoed by royal expert Katie Nicholl in her 2022 book, The New Royals: Queen Elizabeth‘s Legacy and the Future of the Crown.
Since joining the royal family in June 1999 through her marriage to Prince Edward, Sophie has carved out a significant role.
While Edward recently announced a short break from his royal obligations, Sophie continues to engage actively with the Windsor family.
Notably, she supports over 70 charities and organizations, focusing on issues like women’s equality, agriculture, British sports, and disability rights.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed; a royal aide even dubbed her the “Windsor’s secret weapon.”
This title reflects her tireless efforts and the genuine passion she brings to every cause she champions.
It’s clear that Sophie’s work ethic sets her apart within the royal household.
Before her royal life, Sophie was a successful public relations professional.
She honed her skills at Maclaurin Communication and Media and later co-founded her own firm, RJH, in 1996.
Even as she prepared to marry Prince Edward, she made it known that she intended to continue her professional endeavors.
Sophie’s close friendship with the late Queen Elizabeth II also played a significant role in her royal journey.
Their bond was so strong that Sophie affectionately referred to the Queen as “mama” during a speech, highlighting the warmth of their relationship.
However, her transition to royal life wasn’t without its challenges.
In 2001, during an interview with a journalist posing as a sheikh, Sophie mistakenly called the Queen “an old love.”
This incident marked a turning point, leading her to step back from her career outside the royal family.
Reflecting on her early struggles, Sophie shared how she had to adapt to her new role, saying, “I had to take a really big step back and say, OK, they want you to be the icing on the cake.” This acknowledgment illustrates her understanding of the expectations placed upon her as a royal.
As King Charles ascended the throne, Sophie’s popularity surged.
Recent polls indicate she is now the seventh most favored royal, trailing only behind prominent figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William.
This rise in public esteem underscores her growing influence and the respect she commands.
Sophie’s journey within the royal family showcases her resilience and unwavering commitment.
