Monarch rewards loyal brother with elevated title and expanding royal duties
Prince Edward has received a major boost from King Charles, who is placing his younger brother at the heart of the monarchy’s future.
Shortly after taking the throne, the King bestowed upon Edward the prestigious title of Duke of Edinburgh—a distinction originally created for their father, Prince Philip, when he married Queen Elizabeth. The honour marks a key milestone in Edward’s royal journey.
Despite Charles’s commitment to a streamlined monarchy, Edward and his wife, Duchess Sophie, have stepped further into the spotlight, reflecting a growing reliance on the couple’s dedication and public service.
Royal editor Emily Ferguson of Express reported that a source close to the palace described Edward as “the future” of the monarchy. His recent engagements include representing the royal family at the inauguration mass for Pope Leo in Vatican City and attending high-profile events such as the Royal Windsor Horse Show and Buckingham Palace garden parties alongside the King.
The shift in Edward’s visibility comes amid a changing royal landscape, following the departure of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Prince Andrew’s removal from official duties.
“With fewer senior working royals, Charles’s siblings are more important than ever,” Ferguson noted. “Edward and Sophie have clearly demonstrated their loyalty and appear genuinely content with their current standing.”
The royal couple’s transition into these prominent roles has reportedly been smooth, as they continue to strengthen their place at the core of King Charles’s vision for the monarchy’s future.
