Prince Philip built a "strong" and close relationship with most of his children. But, among all, he reportedly favors Prince Edward the most.
Speaking on Channel 5's documentary, Edward & Sophie: The Reluctant Royals, royal biographer Richard Kay shared that the Duke of Edinburgh only stayed at the Queen's bedside during the birth of their youngest son. Since then, they have formed a father-and-son bond.
Journalist Ayesha Hazarik echoed the biographer's statements, according to the Daily Express. She added that the Earl of Wessex became the "baby" of the family.
Sources from the same publication asserted that Prince Philip has continued to favor Prince Edward because they prefer to live a "quiet life." Alongside his wife, Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, he does not "crave attention," which has remained "pleasing" to the Duke of Edinburgh.
Another insider stated that the Queen's husband hanged only one portrait inside his study. Cheat Sheet reiterated that it is a photo of his youngest son, Prince Edward.
While the British royals have remained tight-lipped about the matter, several experts and commentators believe that this is the dynamic inside the royal household. One Palace source even noted that everyone seemingly loves the Earl and Countess of Wessex because of their characters, being "dutiful" and "uncomplaining.
When Prince Philip retired in 2017, Prince Edward, reportedly, took over his father's royal duties and responsibilities. He has since continued to do his part as a senior working royal, alongside Sophie.
Reports, later on, speculated that the Queen's youngest son will soon inherit their father's dukedom and other royal titles. When he passes away, the Earl and Countess of Wessex will likely become the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
It makes total sense if the royal couple receives the dukedom. Experts pointed out that, among the Queen's children, Prince Edward is the only one who does not have a dukedom.
Meanwhile, Prince Philip's wife, the Queen of the United Kingdom, prefers Prince Andrew more than any other of their children, according to a separate report from Cheat Sheet. Royal historian Piers Brendon previously stated that she has always had a "soft spot" for the Duke of York.
While she Prince Edward may not be her favorite, other insiders claimed that Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, is her favorite daughter-in-law. Some publications even revealed that they have a tight relationship, wherein they could spend hours alone together as they discuss their similar interests.
