Harry and Meghan Quietly Replaced by Royal Family’s ‘New Fab Four’ — and the Latest Outing Proves It
As the Sussexes drift further away, a new royal couple steps confidently into the spotlight.
There is a 'new Fab Four' in the royal fold — and today at Buckingham Palace, the world got another glimpse of just how settled they have become. Prince William and Kate Middleton stood alongside the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh during commemorations marking what would have been Queen Elizabeth's 100th birthday. It is the latest sign that a new foursome has firmly taken shape.
It was not so long ago that a different four carried that same promise. William and Prince Harry, alongside Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, were once hailed as the modern face of The Firm — young, energetic, and full of potential. But behind the polished appearances, the cracks were forming long before the public knew it.
According to former royal butler Grant Harrold, the relationship between the Waleses and the Sussexes had already reached breaking point by 2019. Markle's arrival had initially felt like a welcome change, with William reportedly finding his new sister-in-law "quite refreshing." But that early warmth did not last. By September 2020, Harry and Markle had stepped back from royal duties entirely. Harry eventually settled in the United States and later published his memoir Spare, which did very little to heal the rift. Their most recent Australian tour drew its share of criticism, only widening the distance between their world and the one they left behind.
In their place, a new and perhaps more enduring partnership has taken shape. Edward, who sits between King Charles and William in age, has become a natural bridge between the monarchy's two generations. Meanwhile, Sophie has built a genuine bond with Middleton — one that goes well beyond royal duty. That bond was on full display at the centenary celebrations. Inside Marble Hall, with around 190 guests gathered to honor the late Queen, the four were seen together, relaxing, engaged, and sharing a cocktail in her memory.
Their connection runs deeper than shared engagements, too. Both Middleton and Sophie came from ordinary backgrounds, navigating the traditions and expectations of the Royal Family largely on their own terms. It is a common thread that has only brought them closer over the years.
And their friendship looks set to grow stronger still. William and Middleton's home, Forest Lodge — a Grade II-listed eight-bedroom property within the grounds of Windsor Great Park — sits just a short drive from Bagshot Park, the longtime residence of Sophie and Edward. For those watching this new Fab Four take shape, the proximity feels entirely fitting.
Royal biographer Sean Smith had earlier talked about it. "They remain the best of friends. They have always been two middle-class girls from the country battling their way through the etiquette and traditions of the Royal Family." The connection between Middleton and Sophie first came into public view in 2017, when they appeared together in a carriage at Royal Ascot. A playful moment during the procession, when Sophie lost her footing and fell against Kate, left both women in stitches. “Sophie was attempting to change places when she fell on top of Kate, reducing both women to a shriek of giggles. It was a truly happy moment,” Smith recalled.
