Sophie, Countess of Wessex could teach Meghan Markle a thing or two about how she could also turn her life around amid ongoing criticisms.

When Sophie first joined the royal family, she was also embroiled in a massive scandal. Her phone was tapped by the News of the World. And she was heard saying damning things about the royal family.

A photo of a topless Sophie was also published in The Sun. But years later, Sophie has become one of the most sought-after members of the royal family.

While speaking with Woman UK, royal commentator Duncan Larcombe said that it also took Sophie quite sometime before she managed to change the public’s perception towards her. However, the difference between Sophie and Markle is that the former never gave up.

“Sophie didn’t have an easy ride and you could argue that it was worse than Meghan’s arrival in the royal family. But after the scandal, she changed her circle of friends and proceeded to transform herself into an ideal royal wife. She adapted, she survived, and now she flourishes,” he said.

Larcombe acknowledged the fact that joining the royal family is challenging especially for someone like Sophie and Markle who were successful in their respective careers. Both women also had to make huge sacrifices for The Crown.

The royal commentator said that the public hardly sees Sophie hanging out with her business chums, unlike Markle. The latter is still rubbing shoulders with her A-list friends.

Sophie, on the other hand, is mostly focused on her family and the royal family. She is a dedicated wife to Prince Edward and a wonderful mother to Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.

Following Prince Harry and Markle’s Megxit in January, Queen Elizabeth started giving Sophie more royal duties. She has also encouraged her daughter-in-law to make more public appearances.

While speaking with Hello! magazine, royal photographer Tim Rooke shared what it was like working with Sophie.

“It's always more relaxed covering the Earl and the Countess than it is covering other members of the royal family because there are fewer people around and you're sort of part of the party.

“It's very different than going with 60 or 70 members of the media. The Countess is incredibly professional, and she realizes that it's extremely important to have her work covered. She's always aware of us, if you haven't quite got a picture, she'll go out of her way to make sure you get it,” Rooke said.