Who is Prince Edward?
When it comes to the British royal family, some members are more visible than others. For example, everyone knows Queen Elizabeth II, heir to the throne Prince Charles, and younger royals Prince Harry and Prince William. But some might be surprised to learn that the Queen and Prince Philip actually have four children: Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.
Here’s everything you need to know about Prince Edward.
Youngest son
Prince Edward was born on March 10, 1964. At the time of his birth, he was third in line to the throne, behind his two older brothers, Prince Charles and Prince Andrew, but before his older sister Princess Anne. Now, he’s ninth in the order of succession, and will drop to tenth with the arrival of the new royal baby.
Earl of Wessex
Upon marriage, royal princes often receive a dukedom from the monarch; however, on Edward’s wedding day, he was given the title of Earl of Wessex. He will reportedly take on his father’s title of Duke of Edinburgh upon Prince Philip’s death.
Married to Countess Sophie
Edward is the only one of his siblings who has not divorced. He married Sophie Rhys-Jones back in June of 1999 in a relatively private ceremony (by royal standards) in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. The happy couple have two children together, Lady Louise Windsor, and James, Viscount Severn.
A full-time royal
After a stint in the marines and an attempt at a television production career, Edward is starting to take over many of the responsibilities and engagements of his father, Prince Philip, who announced his retirement earlier last year.
Royal favourites
They are only rumors, to be certain, but the couple appears to have a special relationship with the Queen and Prince Philip.
“[Countess Sophie] is trusted and relied on by the Queen in a way I couldn’t say applied to the Duchess of Cambridge or the Duchess of Cornwall,” a royal aide told the Daily Mail. “She is like another daughter to Her Majesty, they are that close.”
Similarly, a royal insider told Express: “Edward has moulded into a quiet and efficient figure who does not seek attention or acquire headlines. He and Sophie are liked for being dutiful and uncomplaining.”
Courtesy Town and Country Magazine, UK