Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, has solidified her place within the royal family by rising to the occasion as the family faces numerous crises. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, speaking to FEMAIL, praised the Duchess for her contributions in recent months, including taking on extra duties during Kate Middleton's battle with cancer.
Fitzwilliams compared Sophie to Meghan Markle, who stepped down from royal duties with Prince Harry in 2020. He highlighted Sophie's grounded nature, which allows her to perform her role without attracting negative publicity. "[The Duchess of Edinburgh] is down to earth, which is pivotal, but without attracting adverse publicity," Fitzwilliams said.
Despite both women sharing an interest in global women's issues, Fitzwilliams suggested that while Meghan is perceived as 'self-obsessed', Sophie is known for her quiet dedication. "Sophie was famously a confidante of the late Queen, and King Charles knows he can trust her implicitly. Her temperament is very different from Meghan's. The latter, though talented, is self-obsessed and reportedly temperamental," he explained.
The expert also emphasized the difference in their contributions and public profiles. "Sophie is attached to nearly 70 organizations. Meghan only had a few patronages, and Harry had a few more. They chose to give them up to make a new life elsewhere," Fitzwilliams noted.
"Sophie and Edward do not seek publicity or praise. Like Princess Anne, they get on with it, are trusted, and do a lot of good not just for themselves, unlike the Sussexes, who often appear to do so," he added.
As the royal family continues to face challenges, Sophie's steady presence and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have cemented her role as a key member of the monarchy.
