The Duchess of Edinburgh is being tipped to take on a significantly larger role within the royal family – particularly when Prince William ascends the throne – according to royal commentators.
Despite William’s well-documented vision for a streamlined monarchy, his 61-year-old aunt is reportedly set to be a notable exception.
Sophie, who is married to Prince Edward, 62 – the youngest child of the late Queen Elizabeth II – has long been regarded as one of the Firm’s most dependable figures, admired for her down-to-earth nature and unwavering work ethic.
The mother-of-two turned heads last week as she attended the Reasons For Hope Gala at The Peninsula London, celebrating the legacy of environmental icon Dame Jane Goodall.
Dressed in a flowing, floor-length paisley gown by Australian designer Zimmermann, Sophie exuded quiet confidence as she mingled with dignitaries, including Lady Helen Taylor.
According to body language expert Darren Stanton, her appearance signalled exactly the kind of presence the monarchy needs amid what has already been a turbulent start to the year.
“These are some of the best photos we have seen of Sophie in a long time. They show her to be so confident – not arrogant – but supreme confidence,” Stanton said on behalf of Betfair Casino.
“There is no tension in her eyes, she has a genuine smile (laugh lines, raised cheeks, crows feet), her hands are loose, her hands aren’t interlocked, her shoulders and general posture is raised. All the signs point towards someone who is very socially adept and comfortable in her surroundings.”
Stanton added that both Sophie and Edward are increasingly being relied upon – and her natural ease could help steady the monarchy during a challenging period.
“This is exactly what the family needs, both her and Edward are being required to play bigger and bigger roles, and her confidence and comfort in these situations will help the slightly more nervous Edward play this role.”
He also suggested Prince William is likely paying close attention to their efforts.
“I think especially when William becomes King, they will be incredibly prominent – almost filling the role that William and Kate do now.”
Royal expert Jennie Bond echoed that sentiment, pointing to a shrinking pool of working royals – alongside the ongoing fallout involving disgraced ex-Prince Andrew following the release of the Epstein files – as key reasons Sophie and Edward are more vital than ever.
The former BBC royal correspondent told The Mirror their strong partnership, coupled with Sophie’s relatable personality, makes them particularly valuable to the monarchy’s future.
“With the depletion of the working royals, Edward and Sophie have become ever more important in supporting the monarchy,” Bond said.
“And I’m sure they will continue to have key roles when William becomes King.”
The author added: “Sophie, in particular, has a girl-next-door charm about her that she has never lost, even though she is now a very senior member of the royal family.
“She is immensely relatable, with no airs or graces, and she has a close and very relaxed relationship with her nephew, William.”
Sophie – often dubbed the royal family’s “secret weapon” – recently spoke about her approach to royal life on the Golden Legacy Series podcast.
“My role, as with all members of the family, is to primarily support the King and the monarchy. That is one side of the focus,” she said.
“But also, we’re lucky enough to be able to fulfil our passions and our interests and these over my time as a member of the royal family have developed.”
Sophie currently serves as patron of more than 70 charities and organisations, with a particular focus on women’s rights and safety, disability advocacy and agriculture.