Duchess Sophie No Longer Curtsies Meghan After Title Change

Duchess Sophie, formerly the Countess of Wessex, has been relieved by a recent change in royal protocol following her elevation to Duchess of Edinburgh, a title she received when her husband, Prince Edward, was named Duke of Edinburgh. This new rank means Sophie no longer has to curtsey to Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, who previously held a higher position due to her marriage to Prince Harry but stepped back from royal duties in 2020. The change reflects tensions stemming from Meghan's public criticisms of the royal institution, which Sophie is reported to support diligently. Sophie expressed that stepping into the Duchess of Edinburgh role was an emotional and significant moment, acknowledging the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II who held the same title. Additionally, a resurfaced video from Meghan Markle's 2018 wedding has recently softened public perceptions of her interactions with young Princess Charlotte, countering earlier tabloid narratives about their relationship. Overall, these developments highlight shifting dynamics and evolving perceptions within the British royal family.