The Sussexes, together with William and Kate, used to form the popular 'Fab Four' of the Royal Family but their relationship is on the brink of collapse.
The dynamics within the British Royal Family have been shifting dramatically in recent years, with the once-tight bond between Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle now strained. Amidst this royal drama, it seems that William and Kate have found new confidants within the family, namely Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie.
Fab Four: Harry and Meghan excluded
According to The Independent, the close relationship that was once dubbed the 'Fab Four' has evolved into something quite different. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's move to the United States and their explosive revelations about the Royal Family have certainly taken their toll on their relationship with William and Kate.
In his book Spare, Harry alleged that in a 2019 altercation, William physically assaulted him, 'grabbing him by the collar'.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond sheds light on this shift, suggesting that William and Kate have formed a strong bond with Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie. She notes that despite the generational gap, these two royal couples have grown closer, especially in light of recent events like the passing of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Andrew's controversies. She told OK!:
'Sometimes it seems strange to realise that these are two different generations of royals as they seem much closer. But, especially after all that has happened - not only with the queen’s death but with Harry and Meghan leaving and Andrew getting 'sacked' - the two couples have formed a tight bond.'
Bond emphasizes the significance of having trustworthy confidants within the royal circle. She mentions that both William and Kate 'feel they can confide in Edward and Sophie and there are so few people a royal can entrust with their thoughts and feelings.'
Close bond between Sophie and Kate Middleton
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Kate Middleton share more than just royal titles. As per Marie Claire, they share mutual interests in sports, fashion, and charitable work. Their close friendship has been evident in their public outings together and the support Sophie has provided to Kate in her royal journey.
However, it's not just common interests that have drawn William and Kate to Edward and Sophie. Bond highlights Sophie's easygoing nature and her ability to connect with people, which has likely contributed to their strong friendship. She said:
'She is so easy to be with as William obviously appreciates, which is why he invited her to Battersea Power Station with him. And Sophie and Catherine have developed a friendship which I think both value highly.'
Furthermore, both Sophie and Kate Middleton came from humble backgrounds in contrast to their royal husbands. Sophie's parents were a salesman and a secretary, the latter of whom also worked for a charity. Similarly, before venturing into their successful Party Pieces business, Kate's parents were employed by British Airways.
In the midst of this royal rift, Prince William and Kate Middleton have seen their popularity rise significantly, both in the UK and the United States. Their composed and measured response to the drama has resonated with the public, earning them high approval ratings. Prince William emerged as the top-rated royal in a recent YouGov survey with 74%, with Kate Middleton also enjoying considerable favor with 62%.
Read more:
⋙ Royal expert claims Kate Middleton's relationship with Prince Harry may not recover
⋙ William and Harry's relationship still struggling as they didn't meet for Queen's death anniversary
⋙ Prince William will never forgive Harry for revealing this in his book, author claims
