Sophie Skipped Diana Funeral Due to Resemblance, Rivalry

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, did not attend Princess Diana's 1997 funeral due to their striking physical resemblance, which she and palace advisors believed could upset mourners. According to Sean Smith's biography, Sophie made the decision thoughtfully and was fully supported by the royal family, noting that her similar blonde hair and blue eyes might cause distress or confusion. At the time, Sophie was dating Prince Edward and was not yet a full-time royal, and she publicly acknowledged she could never compete with Diana’s image. Reports indicate that Diana and Sophie had a complicated relationship, with comparisons and rivalry often fueled by media coverage. Diana’s funeral was attended by over 2,000 people and watched by billions worldwide, marking a major moment of public mourning. Sophie married Prince Edward in 1999 and became a respected senior royal and close confidante of Queen Elizabeth II.