ophie, Duchess of Edinburgh celebrated her 60th birthday on January 20 and new reports have emerged over her future within the monarchy.
According to a royal expert, Prince William – who is heir to the throne – may have some big plans in store for Sophie and her husband Prince Edward.
Sophie has often been branded King Charles’ ‘secret weapon’ thanks to her hard work within the royal family. But could she be the same when William becomes king one day?
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s future in the royal family
A source recently told The Sunday Times that the Prince of Wales will be “eager for his aunt and uncle to play a more prominent role in public life” when he becomes monarch.
Speaking about the reports, royal commentator Jennie Bond has told OK!: “By any measure, Sophie has proved herself to be a major asset to the royal family, and William would be foolish to ignore the value she brings.
“She is dignified and elegant, and yet still the same Sophie she was when she met Edward: unpretentious, generous and with a natural charm.
“She has worked below the radar for many years, neither expecting nor receiving the publicity she deserves. Recently though, with the slimmed down royal family, the public have come to recognise how important the duchess is to the work of the monarchy.”
Jennie went on to say that she’s sure there will be a “major role” for Sophie in the future. She added that “King William will be leaning heavily on both Sophie and Edward to support the monarchy in all it does in the future”.
Sophie branded King Charles’ ‘secret weapon’
The duchess has been called the king’s “secret weapon” by many royal experts over the years.
Following Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022, Sophie and Edward have stepped up even more to support King Charles.
Sophie has proved herself to be a major asset to the royal family, and William would be foolish to ignore the value she brings.
Speaking to OK!, royal author Katie Nicholl said in December 2024: “Now, more than ever, we’re seeing what a vital cog Sophie is in the royal machine. People say she is the ‘secret weapon’ within the monarchy. I think that’s absolutely true, because she’s always there at pivotal moments to help steady the ship.
“She’s seen as a very safe pair of hands, which really became evident during the final years of the late queen’s life as she relied more and more on her substitutes.”
Royal author Ingrid Seward added of Sophie: “Like the Princess of Wales, Sophie was waiting in the wings for years. But that’s probably how she thought she had to be as a woman joining the monarchy.”
Ingrid said the duchess has been “plugging away behind the scenes”. She added that she “has earned every ounce of respect she now has”.
