Inside Prince Edward Duchess Sophie's romance - from royal scandal to secret to lasting marriage
The couple have been married for almost 26 years
Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie have built a strong, enduring marriage that has stood the test of time.
To mark Valentine’s Day (February 14), we’re looking at one of the British royal family’s most beloved couples.
Prince Edward and Sophie tied the knot in 1999 and will mark their 26th wedding anniversary in June 2025. They have two children – Lady Louise Windsor, 21, and James, Earl of Wessex, 17.
Edward, 60, and Sophie’s journey to happiness hasn’t always been smooth sailing, though. From a royal scandal to the secret that keeps their love strong, here’s everything you need to know about their romance.
Scandal that Duchess Sophie and Prince Edward faced in their early relationship
In the early 2000s, Sophie, a former PR executive, found herself at the centre of a major scandal that nearly jeopardised her standing in the royal family.
In 2001, the duchess was caught in a media sting. This was where an undercover reporter from News of the World posed as an Arab sheikh.
During a secretly recorded conversation, it was alleged that Sophie made several unflattering comments about the royal family, including remarks about then-Prime Minister Tony Blair and King Charles.
Among the most damaging claims, she allegedly called Queen Elizabeth II “old dear” and criticised Charles’ relationship with Camilla.
The scandal sent shockwaves through Buckingham Palace. Palace officials stated that Sophie had not insulted the queen, the Queen Mother or the politicians.
Under immense pressure, Sophie was forced to step down from her PR career and focus solely on her royal duties.
However, it was Prince Edward’s unwavering support that helped her weather the storm.
Despite the controversy, their marriage remained solid and Sophie gradually became one of the most trusted and hardworking royals.
Edward and Sophie share secret behind lasting marriage
Fast forward to today, and Prince Edward and Sophie’s relationship is stronger than ever.
During their recent tour to Nepal, the couple shared the heartwarming secret to their 25-year marriage.
When asked by reporters how they had managed to sustain such a strong bond, Edward reportedly replied: “Because we’re best friends.”
Sophie, 60, quickly agreed. “That’s true.”
He is the best of fathers, the most loving of husbands, and still is my best friend.
The duchess further elaborated on how humour keeps their relationship thriving.
She said: “There’s always got to be humour. Especially when you’re travelling, and you’ve got no idea what’s about to happen. You’ve got to laugh.”
She also revealed that their playful rivalry keeps things exciting.
“Got to be competitive going up those hills!” Sophie said.
Duchess Sophie calls Prince Edward her ‘guide’
Over the years, the duchess has made it clear that Edward is not just her husband, but her biggest supporter and closest confidant.
During a speech in 2024, she spoke about how much she relies on him as Edward marked his 60th birthday.
“He has been my guide and shown me the way over the years. He has given me much help and advice (not always taken I admit),” Sophie began.
She also described how they work as a team: “His knowledge and instincts that have been honed over decades of service are invaluable. Together I think we make quite a good team.”
Ending her heartfelt speech, Sophie gushed: “He is the best of fathers, the most loving of husbands, and still is my best friend.”
Unlike other high-profile royal marriages that have faced divorces and scandals, Edward and Sophie’s relationship has remained a shining example of stability.
Sophie has since become one of the most respected members of the royal family. She has embraced her royal duties, supporting causes such as blindness prevention and women’s rights.
Meanwhile, Edward has taken on more responsibilities since the passing of his father Prince Philip in 2021, stepping up as a key figure in the monarchy.
As they approach 26 years married, their bond is as strong as ever.
Read more: Inside Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s diet as she wows on royal tour
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