Princess Sofia is the only daughter-in-law of King Carl Gustaf. The two royals share a good relationship – but as it turns out, her influence on the Swedish monarch is greater than previously assumed.
Princess Sofia, 40, has been part of the Swedish royal family for almost ten years. On June 13, 2015, she married Prince Carl Philip, 45, becoming the daughter-in-law of King Carl Gustaf, 78, and Queen Silvia, 81. Initially, Swedes were somewhat skeptical of their new princess, who was previously known for posing in revealing model photos and participating in a reality TV show.
However, Sofia has long since proven herself to be a reliable member of the royal family. Her marriage to Carl Philip is considered scandal-free, and in February 2025, they welcomed their fourth child. So far, so fairytale-like – and as of early March, it has become known that the 40-year-old exerts significant influence on her noble family members, especially her father-in-law.
Princess Sofia’s Views Inspire King Carl Gustaf
The Swedish platform “Godare,” a subsidiary of Aftonbladet, recently published a conversation with royal reporter Jenny Alexandersson. The experienced journalist has had the opportunity to accompany royal family members on various trips over the years, gaining insights rarely accessible to outsiders. According to Alexandersson, food is a particularly sensitive topic for the royals.
Carl Gustaf, Silvia, and others reportedly avoid revealing their favorite dishes because “it would mean they are always served the same food.” While the royals do enjoy their favorite meals, a bit of variety is welcome, even on their noble plates. Speaking of variety: it has certainly found its way into the palace kitchens since Sofia’s wedding to Carl Philip, as the princess has been a vegetarian since she was 16.
She occasionally eats fish, Alexandersson notes, but “in fact, she has inspired the entire royal family to adopt a more vegetarian diet.” This inspiration is not limited to Villa Solbacken, where Sofia, Carl Philip, and their four children live—it has also reached the royal court. “The king has admitted that he now opts for vegetarian choices more often,” Alexandersson reveals.
Carl Philip Has Adapted to Sofia’s Lifestyle
The now 40-year-old has not only influenced her father-in-law but has also convinced her husband to adopt a more balanced and environmentally conscious diet. “[Carl Philip] mentioned in an interview that he has reconsidered his meals at home and now prefers vegetables over meat,” Alexandersson recalls. When the father of four does eat meat, “it is likely mostly Swedish. He pays attention to where the meat comes from.”
But Sofia and Carl Philip are not the only ones committed to a conscious and healthy diet—Prince Daniel, 51, is also known for his mindful approach. Alexandersson explains that he has not consumed alcohol for decades, mainly due to his kidney condition. The husband of Princess Victoria, 47, was born with a kidney disease and has long lived with a donor organ. However, his decision is also rooted in his fundamentally healthy lifestyle. “Like Victoria, he places great importance on fruits and vegetables and ensures that his children eat healthily as well,” Alexandersson says.
