Royal Family Dynamics Shift as Anne and Sophie Choose a Quieter Path
Princess Anne and the Duchess of Edinburgh have chosen a more reserved approach to their roles, contrasting sharply with the high-profile lifestyle of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, according to royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams.
While the Duke and Duchess of Sussex often capture significant media attention, Fitzwilliams noted that Princess Anne, 73, and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, 59, have shown no inclination to seek the same level of visibility. Instead, they focus on fulfilling their duties without the fanfare that accompanies the Sussexes.
Fitzwilliams remarked, "The challenge for the Royal Family today is the inability to command attention like the Sussexes, although attention is a crucial aspect of royal duties."
Since stepping down from their royal roles in January 2020, Prince Harry, 39, and Meghan, 43, have left what Fitzwilliams describes as a "vacuum" within the Royal Family. This shift required Prince William and Princess Kate, both 42, to take on increased responsibilities.
In contrast, Princess Anne and Sophie remain committed to their roles, conducting numerous foreign tours without seeking the same international spotlight as Harry and Meghan. Fitzwilliams explained, "The Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh do commendable work abroad but don't pursue a high profile and seem content with this choice."
Known for her dedication, Princess Anne often leads in public engagements, but she rarely grants interviews, focusing instead on promoting her charitable causes.
Royal tours are designed to enhance diplomatic, charitable, and cultural relations, reflecting support for various causes and strengthening ties between the UK and other nations.
In contrast, Prince Harry and Meghan's personal invitations, such as their visit to Nigeria in May and a planned trip to Colombia, have drawn criticism, as they are no longer official working royals. Fitzwilliams observed, "The institution needs the spotlight, yet Harry and Meghan's unofficial tours draw significant attention that the Royal Family currently struggles to match."
