Queen Elizabeth’s Favorite Royal Revealed

In the years since, biographies, memoirs and reports from royal experts have continued to shed light on her private preferences, personal friendships and family dynamics.

Among the revelations is the enduring bond she shared with Sophie, 61, the Duchess of Edinburgh and wife of Prince Edward, 62, the late monarch’s youngest son.

Although the Queen was known for carefully guarding her opinions in public, those who kept a close eye on the family have described Sophie’s place within her inner circle as unique.

Royal biographer Ingrid Seward said: “With the exception of her daughter Anne, the Queen was closer to Sophie than any of the other royal women.

“It was a really close bond, and Elizabeth was always Sophie’s biggest confidante.”

The author noted: ‘The queen thought she was very down-to-earth, because she refused to have expensive security and things like that, and she liked her lack of charisma and grace. I think she also saw Sophie as a bit of a surrogate daughter.’