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He’s always been more of a background player – happy to go about his duties without any fanfare or fuss.
But in light of the unprecedented health crisis facing the royal family, which has seen both King Charles and Kate, Princess of Wales diagnosed with cancer, sources say Prince Edward is stepping up like never before.
According to The Telegraph, the 60-year-old has taken on an extended list of duties since the king’s illness, which was announced in January.
The respected UK outlet says a completely different picture is emerging of Prince Edward, who seems destined to be the royal family’s new "leading man" – albeit temporarily – thanks to both the King and Prince William curtailing their public duties.
Both Charles and Kate are currently receiving treatment for their unspecified cancer diagnoses, while William is taking time out of his official duties to support his wife and be a reassuring influence for their three children, Prince George (10), Princess Charlotte (8) and Prince Louis (5).
Royal sources say Edward has evolved into a “quiet and efficient figure who does not seek attention or acquire headlines”.
After a stint in the marines and an attempt at a television production career, Edward began to take over many of the responsibilities and engagements of his late father, Prince Philip, who retired from public duties in 2017.
He is particularly involved in work for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which Philip founded in 1956 to help young people develop life and work skills, as well as the youth-focused The Earl and Countess of Wessex Trust.
On his 60th birthday on 10 March, his wife of 25 years, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, sung his praises and paid tribute to his commitment to his royal duties.
“You can only guess the number of hours he devotes to this, the most inspiring of youth charities,” the Duchess of Edinburgh said, referring to his work with the Duke of Edinburgh organisation.
The duke has been her guide over the years, she added.
“Edward has given me much help and advice (not always taken I admit), and his knowledge and instincts that have been honed over decades of service are invaluable – so we share speech notes, chat through issues our patronages may be tackling, and together I think we make quite a good team.”
It's not just Sophie who's commended Edward. A former Balmoral gamekeeper says the duke is his favourite of the royal brothers.
“Edward was easily the toughest of all the princes. Nothing was too much for him.”
Sources: dailymail.co.uk, townandcountrymag.com
