Duchess of Edinburgh avoided 'internal politics' amid William and Harry's rift
WATCH NOW: 'Sophie is the Royal Family's secret weapon!' Royal commentator praises Duchess of Edinburgh
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The Duchess of Edinburgh has carved out a unique position within the British Royal Family, successfully navigating its complexities while earning trust and affection from fellow royals.
Unlike other royal brides, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh has maintained a drama-free presence.
Royal commentator Katie Nicholl told OK! that Sophie is "a very popular member of the family because she's easy-going, there's never any drama, and she just gets on with the job, quietly and diligently."
Her diplomatic approach has earned her the description of being a "bridge between generations" within the Royal Family.
Duchess of Edinburgh avoided 'internal politics' amid William and Harry's rift
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She has demonstrated a particular talent for connecting with both younger and older members of the family, while maintaining a low-key presence.
Sophie played a crucial role during the well-documented rift between Prince William and Prince Harry, offering support during challenging times.
"She was very supportive in those years when William and Prince Harry fell out and there were all the problems over him and Meghan leaving the country," Nicholl told the publication.
According to Nicholl, Sophie's understanding of the situation behind the scenes was particularly valuable.
Prince William and Sophie are known to have a close friendship
PA"Sophie was among the few people who understood how difficult it was behind the scenes, and rumour has it she played a bit of a peacekeeper," she explained.
Her success within the family is often attributed to her measured approach to internal dynamics.
"That's partly why she has been so successful in the family, because she's never got overly involved in all the internal politics," Nicholl added.
Sophie and Prince William's close relationship has been evident at several recent royal events.
Prince Harry pictured with the Duchess of Edinburgh in 2013
PA
In June 2024, the pair were seen sharing smiles and engaging in conversation at the Order of the Garter ceremony at Windsor Castle.
Just two days before that, at Trooping the Colour, Sophie was observed placing her hand affectionately on William's back as they entered Buckingham Palace after the RAF flypast.
The duo also demonstrated their comfortable rapport at a screening of the Rhino Man film in London in 2023, arriving together in a black 4x4.
Their families have grown increasingly close, with both living near each other in Windsor.
The Duchess of Edinburgh accompanied by Meghan Markle on the way to the late Queen's funeral
PA"Both Sophie and Prince Edward have been there emotionally for William and Catherine, and their friendship was cemented over it," Nicholl noted.
The Edinburghs have also visited the Wales family at their Norfolk residence, Anmer Hall.
Sophie has maintained a balanced approach in her royal relationships, demonstrating this through thoughtful gestures.
She was notably the first royal to visit the Sussexes following the birth of their son Archie in 2019.
A close source praised her initiative, saying: "She did the right thing. She got in the car and went over."
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