Prince Edward and Prince William share a close bond, residing near each other in Windsor. As King Charles’s reign transitions to King William’s, Edward is poised to become William’s primary source of royal counsel.

With Charles and Princess Anne significantly older than Edward, and Prince Andrew distanced from royal circles, Edward emerges as a natural advisor for William.

While William is preparing for his future role, Edward’s experience as Duke of Edinburgh and his current responsibilities in supporting the King during his recovery from illness establish him as a trusted member of the royal family, ready to offer guidance on royal protocol and duties.

Online royal correspondent Danielle Stacey said: “The Duke of Edinburgh has been a huge support to the King since the start of his reign, particularly in recent months, following Charles’ cancer diagnosis. Both Edward and Sophie have stepped up their engagements and represented the King at the historic parade for the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale earlier this month.

“The couple conduct their duties across the UK and overseas, with Edward visiting South Africa, Uganda and the island of St Helena, this year alone. It was also noted that Edward told his brother ‘I know you’ve got it’ in a touching behind-the-scenes moment at the coronation.

“I think it’s also significant that Edward was one of the few royals to join the King and Queen at the Easter Sunday service in Windsor – Charles’ most significant public outing since his diagnosis.”

Peter Phillips, the son of Princess Anne, previously mentioned how busy Charles’ siblings are at the moment, telling Sky News Australia: “Everyone has their own different role to play. There’s a lot of pressure on the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, my mother and the Queen to take on a lot more of the responsibilities… that adds its own pressures.

“There is definitely a short-term pressure on certain members of the family to be able to continue to be out and about and to be seen and to support organisations and conduct official engagements that need to be done.”