Kate Middleton and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, are reportedly very close. After reports that Duchess Sophie stepped in to help Princess Kate, new photos reveal that the two showed off their sweet friendship at the Princess of Wales' annual Christmas carol concert on December 6.

In addition to sitting together during the festive event, Princess Kate and Duchess Sophie shared a special moment before the service began. Hello! reported, Kate and Sophie were seen kissing each other on the cheek as the invited guests arrived at Westminster Abbey. While there are no photos of the moment in question, it is clear that Sophie and Kate's relationship has developed throughout 2024.

The Duchess of Edinburgh, often referred to as Princess Kate's “royal sister,” has taken on more responsibilities this year. Kate took a step back from her royal duties following her cancer diagnosis, but Sophie seems to be helping to alleviate some of the pressure on the princess.

Royal author and commentator Ingrid Sward recently reported for Hello! and spoke about Sophie and Kate's special bond. They have a sisterly bond, and Sophie is the big sister that Kate never had,” Sward explained, explaining that the reason for their close relationship, the royal expert said, is that ”they both had really long relationships with their husbands-to-be, and Sophie lived in the palace.” She continued. By the time they married, they had more knowledge about what they were getting themselves into than any royal brides before them.”

Marrying into a royal family is far from a normal experience, and Sophie and Kate must have supported each other. Sward told the outlet, “They probably bonded very well in the beginning and have so much in common.” Sophie was by Kate's side in an informal capacity because “she had the same experience of a commoner marrying into the family.”

And Kate was by Kate's side in an informal capacity because “she was a commoner marrying into the family.

And as for Princess Kate's famous Christmas carol concert, there was reportedly one member of the royal family who did not receive an invitation. According to the Daily Mail, “One double agent whispered that for the second year in a row, a proposal to invite (Prince Andrew) to Kate's annual carol service, perhaps to sit behind a pillar, was rejected. 'Even though it's a family affair, ...... there was no seat for Uncle Andy.”