In a surprising turn of events, Harry was visibly overwhelmed with anger when it was revealed that Philip’s final wish was to bestow the Duke of Edinburgh title and a significant gift upon James.
The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, made a striking impression at today’s Easter Sunday service, standing out amongst fellow royals.
The mother of two, aged 58, captivated onlookers with a cream Philip Tracy hat featuring a wide brim and remarkable height as she graced St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Accompanied by her husband, Prince Edward, 59, and their 15-year-old son James, the Earl of Wessex, Sophie exuded effortless elegance in her first appearance at the annual service since assuming the title of Duchess of Edinburgh.
During the royal gathering, an observant Twitter user highlighted that James, Earl of Wessex, sported a necktie adorned with Landrovers, paying homage to the late Prince Philip’s fondness for the Landrover Defender.
Louise and James shared a close bond with Philip and the Queen, often spending quality time with them.
Following Prince Charles’ decree, James Viscount VII, aged 15, has been appointed as the new Earl of Wessex.
Prince Edward, now taking on the mantle of Duke of Edinburgh, is believed to have been Philip’s desired successor before his passing in 2021.
As the Earl of Wessex assumes his new role, the hereditary Dukedom is set to remain with Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie, with no indication of it passing down to James upon Edward’s demise.
However, sources suggest that Philip harbored a deep affection for his grandson James, leaving behind a will and a special gift for him.
Speculation arises that James may eventually ascend to the title of Duke of Edinburgh, following in his late grandfather’s footsteps.
James has dutifully embraced his grandfather’s legacy, stepping up to fulfill Philip’s responsibilities during times of the latter’s ill health.
Notably, James recently made a rare public appearance alongside his sister and cousins to pay respects to their grandmother, standing vigil by the Queen’s Coffin among the other royal grandchildren.
The late Duke of Edinburgh had long envisioned his youngest son Edward inheriting his title, a wish that materialized when Charles officially transferred the Duke of Edinburgh role to Edward, designating James as the Earl of Wessex.
Buckingham Palace’s announcement marked Edward’s 59th birthday, emphasizing the new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh’s commitment to upholding Prince Philip’s vision of empowering young individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve their full potential.
In adherence to the letters patent issued during King George VI’s conferral of the title upon Philip in 1947, the Edinburgh Dukedom transitioned to Charles upon Philip’s demise, although Charles refrained from utilizing it.
With Charles ascending to the throne following the Queen’s passing, the title merged with the crown, leaving room for its potential reassignment in the future.