In a rare interview with The Sunday Times, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, opened up about a number of topics, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step down from royal duties. Read on for more from the candid interview.
Married to Queen Elizabeth’s son Prince Edward, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh is Prince Harry’s aunt. Discussing the topic of newcomers within the royal family in her interview with The Sunday Times, Sophie said that: “We all try to help any new members of the family.”
She then compared her initiation into the royal family, in which her and Prince Edward were surrounded by a media storm of their own, back when they wed in 1999. She said: “Remember I’d had five years to adjust. And for our six-month engagement I was even staying at Buckingham Palace. Not that you necessarily know how it will pan out.” The Duchess of Edinburgh is said to have a wonderful relationship with the royal family, particularly with the late Queen Elizabeth and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Speaking candidly in the same interview, she discussed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step down from royal duties, stating: “I just hope they will be happy.”
She then went on to discuss her own children—20-year-old Lady Louise Windsor and 16-year-old James, Viscount Severn—and how they will not be taking on royal duties either. She explained: “We try to bring them up with the understanding that they are very likely to have to work for a living…Hence we made the decision not to use HRH titles. They have them and can decide to use them from 18, but I think it’s highly unlikely.”
Clearly trying to instill a sense of appreciation and down-to-earth nature in her children, the Duchess of Edinburgh also opened up about the normalcy her children have despite their royal family. She said: “I guess not everyone’s grandparents live in a castle, but where you are going is not the important part, or who they are. When they are with the Queen, she is their grandmother.” It’s a very balanced approach to royal life, and we’re sure Sophie and Prince Edward’s children will grow up all the better for it
Meanwhile, the Duchess of Edinburgh has been doing her own fair share of charitable work. She’s volunteered for a number of charities, including making food for NHS workers. HOLA! reports that the person who introduced Sophie to this initiative, society events planner Peregrine Armstrong-Jones, said: “Sophie’s done a fabulous job. She’s got stuck into everything, cooking, prep work and cleaning. She’s done it privately, without any fanfare, and the staff think she’s incredible. The team here are giving everything and it’s been a real boost to morale.” The Duchess of Edinburgh seems to be doing a wonderful job in her role.
What did you think about Sophie’s comments regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle standing down from their royal duties? Let us know in the comments and be sure to pass this on to your friends and family!
