Meet Queen Elizabeth’s ‘favourite’ daughter-in-law, Sophie, Countess of Wessex: Prince Edward’s wife worked in PR before royalty, is close to Kate Middleton and suggested the queen watch The Crown
- The countess was close to her mother-in-law, reportedly calling her mama, having daily calls with her during quarantine and even encouraging her to watch Netflix’s The Crown
- Sophie comes from a non-aristocratic background like Catherine, the new Princess of Wales, and had a thriving career in public relations before becoming a royal
Sophie is often labelled as “the queen’s favourite” by the press, and in her early years transitioning to becoming a full-time royal, had her fair share of headline-making moments. But what else is there to know about the Countess of Wessex?
She and the late queen shared a “mother-daughter” relationship
Following the passing of her own mother in 2005, Sophie is said to have called the queen “mama”. Likewise, after the Duke of Edinburgh’s death last year, Sophie became “a rock” to the queen, who found her presence “soothing”, per Evening Standard.
Throughout the pandemic, they kept each other company via daily phone calls and would enjoy walks around the Windsor estate together, according to British media. They share many interests, including horses and riding, as well as watching war films and historical documentaries. Per Evening Standard, Sophie is said to have encouraged the queen to watch Netflix’s The Crown.
Sophie isn’t royal by blood
Born Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones in August 1965, the countess hails from a “normal” family background. Her parents are Christopher Bournes Rhys-Jones, a retired salesman, and the late Mary Rhys-Jones, who worked as a secretary, per Town & Country. She’s the second child and has an older brother.
Sophie and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are both from non-aristocratic backgrounds, and are said to maintain a close relationship.
She and Prince Edward played tennis on their first date
