King Charles' decision spares Sophie from future awkward royal protocol
Duchess Sophie has welcomed a major royal elevation with quiet joy, following King Charles' decision to formally upgrade her standing within the royal family. Her new status not only reflects her longstanding loyalty but also subtly distances her from past royal tensions—particularly those involving Meghan Markle.
In 2023, the monarch elevated Prince Edward and his wife from the Earl and Countess of Wessex to the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. For Sophie, this transformation was more than just a title—it was a deeply personal connection to the late Queen, which she described as “quite a big moment.”
The promotion also carried significant practical consequences. Previously, as Countess of Wessex, Sophie was technically required to curtsy Meghan Markle, due to royal hierarchy rules. However, the shift in status means she no longer needs to perform that gesture toward a family member who has stepped back from royal duties and publicly criticized the institution.
“Sophie is relieved,” a close friend of the couple shared. “She no longer has to curtsy to someone who not only left the Royal fold but has also spent the last few years speaking out against it—something Sophie has worked hard to support.”
Since the King and Princess Catherine's recent cancer diagnoses, Duchess Sophie has stepped up with quiet determination, undertaking more royal responsibilities to uphold the monarchy's continuity. Her growing role has not gone unnoticed.
Insiders say the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are now viewed as reliable senior royals—perhaps even poised to fill the void left by the Sussexes in the royal framework.
