Sophie Wessex wouldn't let Prince Philip bully her, says author, who claims it was a 'relief' for the Queen
Sophie Wessex 'knew how to handle' Prince Philip, her late father-in-law, which Ingrid Seward credits with their closeness


Sophie Wessex wouldn't let Prince Philip 'bully' her, says author Ingrid Seward. Discussing their bond in her book, Prince Philip Revealed: A Man of His Century, she explains why the Queen was often concerned about female family members being able to 'handle' the Duke.
- In a passage, discussing their closeness, Ingrid reveals not only the secret behind their bond but the concerns that plagued the Queen.
- Prince Philip, who died aged 99 on April 9, 2021, didn't 'faze' his daughter-in-law one bit.
- In other royal news, Kate Beckinsale reveals the surprising Royal Family member she'd like to play
Sophie Wessex tribute to Prince Philip during a recent royal outing in Scotland, was an extra personal nod to their close bond. However, in the early days of their relationship, the Queen was worried it wouldn't be that way.
In her book, Prince Philip Revealed: A Man of His Century, author Ingrid Seward explains, “She got on very well with Philip. She knew how to handle him."
Sophie Wessex has been praised as an 'asset' to the Royal Family, with her charming demeanor, and ability to roll with the punches. Who could forget when Sophie Wessex was attacked by a wild animal? Or her incredibly rare trait that Sophie Wessex shares with Meghan Markle?
Talents, traits, and charm aside, to the Queen - she was a godsend. On the Countess' ability to get on with the Duke, Ingrid continues, “The Queen always found that a bit of a relief, if female members of the family knew how to handle Philip." Adding, “She made him laugh, and was not fazed by his abruptness. She would not let him bully her.”
Another factor, which is believed to have strengthened their bond was Lady Louise Windsor’s birth, as it marked a turning point for Prince Philip after a royal ‘snub’. So much so that the youngest female of the Queen's grandchildren was clearly his pride and joy.
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Aoife is an Irish journalist and writer with a background in creative writing, comedy, and TV production.
Formerly woman&home's junior news editor and a contributing writer at Bustle, her words can be found in the Metro, Huffpost, Delicious, Imperica and EVOKE.
Her poetry features in the Queer Life, Queer Love anthology.
Outside of work you might bump into her at a garden center, charity shop, yoga studio, lifting heavy weights, or (most likely) supping/eating some sort of delicious drink/meal.