In the last year, eagle-eyed royal fans have noticed that Prince William has developed a closer relationship with another family member. At a number of royal events in the last year, the Prince of Wales has been photographed chatting up his aunt — Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.
William has never been particularly close to Prince Edward and Sophie, but that’s changed in recent years. The three were spotted together again on Monday at the Garter Day event. Unlike at Trooping the Colour, the Princess of Wales was not in attendance. In some photos, William and Sophie appear to be having a good time together, deep in conversation.
Of course, some people have poked fun at the fact that William looks like a younger version of Prince Edward. While there are some wild insinuations there, the truth is much different.
Amid reports that Duchess Sophie has served as a “maternal” figure in Prince William’s life, a body language expert told Express that there is something warm about their interactions. Judi James says that the “look of pride and joy on Sophie’s face” is special. For some, the blonde Duchess conjures up memories of the late Princess Diana and the moments mother and son didn’t get to share.
Sophie seems to be trying to add a subtle maternal touch to this outing and, with William’s smiles of undisguised delight, it seems to be making a very sweet dynamic here…
Sophie watches his face closely and her beaming smile does make her look like an encouraging, proud mum.
Judi James, Express
Critics Believe Sophie and Edward Are Securing Their Place
While it could be as simple as support between an aunt and her nephew, royal watchers think there is more to it. Some believe the newfound closeness between Duchess Sophie and Prince William is because he is the heir. Some think Sophie is strategically positioning the couple close to the next King.
Of course, Edward and Sophie have managed to avoid much of the family drama of late. That’s no small feat, considering it has plagued the Windsors in recent years. There’s no reason why they couldn’t be in good standing. As an aunt and uncle only 18 and 19 years the heir’s senior, however, chances are they will still have a role as royals to maintain when William eventually takes the throne.
