Prince Edward’s New Royal Title Speaks Volumes About His Future Amid King’s Cancer Battle

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Thanks to his brother King Charles, Prince Edward’s title just got an upgrade. The Duke of Edinburgh has been stepping up in the wake of the monarch’s cancer battle, and it appears those efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him a special new distinction handed down by the king himself.

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Prince Edward has received a new title as a member of the prestigious Order of the Thistle. He showcased his regalia for the title for the first time during a public appearance on April 12, 2024, while attending the dedication for a new vessel in Leith, Scotland, per Us Weekly. The 60-year-old royal, who also serves as the Commodore in Chief of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, donned his ceremonial military uniform adorned with a silver medal featuring a gold emblem, symbolizing his new membership in the Order of the Thistle.

He was appointed to the order in March 2024 by his older brother King Charles, in celebration of his 60th birthday. “On the occasion of The Duke of Edinburgh’s 60th birthday tomorrow, His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to appoint His Royal Highness to the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle,” the royal family shared in a statement via X on March 9, 2024.

The Order of the Thistle is an ancient and prestigious order of chivalry in Scotland. The order, which was established in 1687 by King James VII of Scotland (James II of England) is considered one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon someone in Scotland. The order consists of the sovereign and 16 knights and ladies, who are appointed by the sovereign to honor outstanding contributions to Scotland or to the monarch personally. Members of the Order of the Thistle are known for their service to the nation and the monarch.

The news of Prince Edward’s title comes amid not only Charles’ battle with cancer but also as his nephew, Prince William, has taken a step back from royal duties while his wife, Kate Middleton, undergoes cancer treatment of her own. The Telegraph previously reported that Prince Edward is shaping up to be the royal family’s new “leading man” amidst these struggles. Ever since the king was diagnosed with cancer, Edward has reportedly taken up 297 royal engagements in 2023, the most taken by a royal family member right behind his brother Charles and sister, Princess Anne, per The Independent. Evidently, all of his hard work is being recognized.

Related: What Each Royal Could Inherit From King Charles If He Dies

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