Meghan Markle reportedly snubbed Duchess Sophie’s offer of help when she joined the Royal Family, according to claims made in Gyles Brandreth’s royal biography.
The Duchess officially became a royal when she married Prince Harry in May 2018, but before the big day Sophie invited Meghan round for tea so that she could “assist” her in her transition.
An insider revealed: “It was just the two of them, and they talked for hours. Meghan had so many questions, and Sophie, who knows what it’s like navigating your way through the early days of transition from a commoner to a royal, gave freely of her advice.
“Sophie found Meghan likable and engaging, and told her that she could call her any time when she needed advice about dealing with some of the trickier royals.”
However, in his book Elizabeth: An Intimare Portrait Mr Brandreth wrote: “The Queen (who, of course, had seen it all before) understood Harry’s girl might find adjusting to royal life ‘challenging to begin with’ (as she put it). ‘It is very jolty, but you soon get used to it’ — that was Her Majesty’s experience going back many years.
In 2020 Sophie gave a rare interview in which she explained how she was in a position to help Meghan: “Remember, I’d had five years to adjust [to royal life]. And for our six-month engagement, I was even staying at Buckingham Palace. Not that you necessarily know how it will pan out.”
When asked about the Sussexes making their move to Montecito she responded: “I just hope they will be happy. We all try to help any new members of the family.”
Sophie and Edward live with their children at Bagshot Park in Surrey, although their eldest daughter Louise is currently away studying English Literature at St Andrews University.
The Edinburgh’s family life may mostly remain out of the royal spotlight, but another member of the Firm that Sophie has become close friends with is Princess Kate.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK! magazine: “Both have a common touch… perhaps because they lived ‘normal’ lives before marrying. They connect with the people they meet and look as if they really want to chat.
“They are the new female stars of the show – elegant, engaging and empathetic. It is so much more evident now that Catherine and Sophie are key members of the list of working royals.”
