Kate Middleton's Absence Reportedly Has This Royal Family Member Excited About the Palace Spotlight

Kate Middleton’s absence from royal engagements while she prioritizes her health amid her cancer battle has left a glaring hole in the palace lineup. It’s hard to replace her star wattage, but one working royal is hoping she fits the bill for some fans.

Sophia, Duchess of Edinburgh has taken on a higher profile role since Kate temporarily stepped aside and it’s something she’s rather enjoying, according to Us Weekly. The elevated status wasn’t something she was seeking, but she’s reportedly enjoying life in the public eye. This move has the blessing of King Charles III, who wants the royal engagements to continue with Sophie, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne leading the way. The British press is even calling her the “IT girl” in the royal family. 

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Look no further than the Duchess of Edinburgh’s April 25 appearance at Abbey Road in London. She recreated The Beatles’ iconic crosswalk snapshot with John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr walking in a line together in 1969. The crowds gathered to watch the royal as she strutted her stuff in a gorgeous coral dress with bell sleeves and accessorized the outfit with nude heels and a sophisticated hairdo. Her high-spirited side came out to play in front of throngs of photographers.

The 59-year-old duchess is being touted as the royal family’s “secret weapon” while the palace is in chaos, according to Tatler. She was reportedly Queen Elizabeth II’s “favorite daughter-in-law” and the “savvy peacemaker” at the palace, although fans have heard Kate given this title as well. The Times of London even described her as the working royal “who works harder than Kate, William or Camilla.” She’s known to tackle a high number of engagements without complaint and Sophie is considered the palace’s “safest pair of hands” — that means no controversies because she’s a savvy PR gal.

With Kate out for an indeterminate amount of time, it should be fascinating to see how Sophie’s role changes in the coming months. She’s amping up her fashion, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the British press start to cover her the way they normally approach the Princess of Wales’ appearances. If Sophie wants to be a shining royal star, then now is the time to grab the spotlight.

Before you go, click here to see the 100 best photos of the royal family from the past 20 years.

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