Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, has been described as the Royal Family's 'secret weapon' as she is expected to take on a more prominent role amid the King's health concerns and the Prince and Princess of Wales's increasing responsibilities.
Arthur Edwards, a veteran royal photographer, told The Sun's Royal podcast that while Sophie is 'a joy to photograph', her charitable work often goes unreported. He noted that media outlets rarely cover her overseas trips to places like India and Mali, despite the significant impact of her engagements.
Royal commentators suggest that Sophie and her husband, Prince Edward, could provide valuable support to the monarchy, potentially filling the gap left by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. ITV's Chris Ship remarked that the couple offers 'continuity' and represent a generation between the King and Queen and William and Kate.
Sophie, who holds over 70 patronages and attends more than 200 engagements annually, has dedicated much of her royal life to women's rights and charitable causes. However, palace insiders have criticised the communication strategy, noting that advance notice of her engagements is often lacking, making media coverage difficult.
With Harry and Meghan stepping back and senior royals focusing on health, the Duchess of Edinburgh's role is seen as increasingly vital. Her children, Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex, have not indicated a desire for full-time royal duties, but royal-watchers view Lady Louise as a potential future asset.
