Prince Philip has always been a low-key royal. Since his retirement from his royal functions, the 96-year-old Duke of Edinburgh has chosen a quieter life away from the spotlight in the royal's Sandringham Estate in Norfolk; the public has always been curious about his relationship with his daughters-in-law.
Prince Philip reportedly has a different relationship with his sons' wives, and their behavior has always influenced his treatment of them.
According to a report, Sophie, the Countess of Wessex and Prince Edward's wife, is the closest to Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II. The Countess herself has said in an interview that she and her husband spend almost every weekend with their in-laws. Their children are likewise close to their grandparents, and this is something that the royal monarchs appreciate.
It has not been a secret among royal fans that the Queen and her husband look at their youngest son fondly. It has been said that Prince Philip is reserving his title as Duke of Edinburgh to be inherited by Prince Edward when the times comes. It is said that this was the reason that the title of Earl has been bestowed on Prince Edward, unlike his brothers.
Ever since she split with her husband Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, it has been reported that Prince Philip's relationship with his former daughter-in-law Sarah Ferguson has not been the same. It was said that after she was involved in a toe licking scandal after her divorce, her father in law treated her like an outcast because of the shame she brought on the royal family. Author Katie Nicholl said that she was never welcomed back
"The Duke of Edinburgh never forgave Sarah for the embarrassment and humiliation that she had reaped," she said.
Prince Philip was reportedly instrumental in the marriage of Prince Charles with Diana and approved of her as his match. During the height of their marital issues, Prince Philip was said to have written his daughter in law letters providing advice and support. He also expressed shock at his son's involvement with Camilla, the Telegraph reported.
"We never dreamed that he might feel like leaving you for her. I cannot imagine anyone in their right mind leaving you for Camilla. Such a thought never occurred to us," Prince Philip said in one letter.
As for his relationship with Camilla Parker-Bowles, Prince Charles' second wife, and now Duchess of Cornwall, very little is known. It has been speculated that Prince Philip may have accepted the situation after many years since the scandal came out.
