Duchess Sophie and Prince Edward Take on Key Roles Amid King Charles’s Health Concerns

Duchess Sophie and her husband Prince Edward have assumed significant responsibilities as King Charles III battles cancer. The royal couple has increased their engagements, stepping in amid the health challenges faced by both the monarch and Princess Kate.

Recently, Sophie and Edward commemorated Malta’s 60th independence anniversary during their visit. Buckingham Palace shared photos from the trip, accompanied by a statement that said, “Today, Their Royal Highnesses commemorated the bravery of the people of Malta during the Second World War, casting a wreath into Valletta harbour which suffered relentless aerial attacks by the Luftwaffe and Italian Air Force.”

The statement continued, “In 1942, at the height of the attacks, King George VI awarded the George Cross to the Maltese population in recognition of their resistance, endurance and loyalty. The Duke of Edinburgh was also able to tour the new Maltese HQ of The Duke of Edinburgh International Award.”

In her efforts to support the royal family during a challenging period, Sophie has been referred to as a ‘secret weapon’ by royal commentator Jennie Bond. She told OK! magazine that Sophie “doesn’t complain and demand” but efficiently supports King Charles and pursues her interests.

Duchess Sophie and Prince Edward’s visit to Malta comes shortly after a perceived “snub” by Lady Pamela Hicks, a lady-in-waiting to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Hicks reportedly advocates a slimmed-down monarchy centering on a “hard-working foursome,” omitting the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh despite their numerous engagements.

Prince Edward completed 297 engagements in 2023, ranking third behind Princess Anne and King Charles. Meanwhile, Sophie’s number of engagements has more than doubled compared to last year, as reported by The Times.

During their Malta visit, Sophie and Edward will meet Malta’s President Myriam Spiteri Debono and Prime Minister Dr. Robert Abela. They will also tour Villa Guardamangia, where Queen Elizabeth once lived, and lay a posy in memory of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Furthermore, Sophie, who advocates against violence toward women, will participate in discussions with members of Malta’s Police Force and Human Rights Directorate about supporting victims of human trafficking and gender-based violence. The royal visit will conclude with The King’s Birthday Reception.