King Charles and Prince William are often seen as the most powerful figures in the monarchy, but two other members of The Firm hold significant influence behind the scenes. Royal expert Katie Nicholl says Princess Catherine and Queen Camilla shouldn't be underestimated.
Quiet but powerful influence
Nicholl, co-host of the Royals Uncensored podcast, told iNews: "It's very likely that Kate and Camilla wielded a quiet but incredibly powerful influence over both the King and Prince of Wales when it came to their response (to Andrew). Some describe them as the real power behind the throne."
It is believed that both the King and Queen, and Prince William and his wife, Princess Catherine, wanted Andrew to no longer use his titles to try and stop damage to the monarchy caused by his scandals. Andrew has since kept a low profile at his farmhouse in Norfolk on King Charles' Sandringham estate.
Camilla's transformation
Camilla has successfully transformed her image by throwing herself into public duty. Those close to her say power was never her purpose - her goal was simply to be by the side of the man she's always loved.
As for Princess Catherine, she is now the queen-in-waiting and raising the future king of England. Catherine went from being a middle-class woman to one of the world's most renowned royals.
Catherine's modernising role
Princess Catherine is involved with modernising the monarchy. Prince William will one day become king, but there's no denying the influence and popularity of Catherine as his wife.
Catherine is said to have a connection with the younger generation, meaning she is in a unique position to keep the monarchy relevant.
"[Princess Kate is] hugely influential behind the scenes in hiring and decision-making," royal biographer Penny Junor told The Times in a profile on the future King. "And they approach it as a team. Like the late Queen and Prince Philip, and The King and Queen [Camilla], they're a good double act."
