Sophie Winkleman has opened up about the “brutal” loss of Thomas Kingston, revealing that the Royal Family “miss him every day” following his sudden death last year.
The actor, who is married to Lord Frederick Windsor, son of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, spoke candidly about the impact Kingston’s death has had on her family.
Kingston, the husband of Lady Gabriella Kingston, died by suicide in February 2024, aged 45.
Winkleman described the tragedy as a devastating moment that continues to affect those closest to him. “That was a big tragedy in our lives and we all miss him every day,” she said.
Sophie Winkleman opened up on the "brutal" loss of Thomas Kingston
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“My girls adored him. It’s brutal. We’re still in touch with all his family and it feels like he’s still with us.”
She said her husband has since become involved with James’ Place, a charity that helps men experiencing mental health struggles.
She continued: "It’s not a positive to come out of it at all, but it makes you so much more aware that the exterior of someone can be very different from what’s going on inside."
Winkleman, who is known for her roles in Peep Show, Sanditon and Two and a Half Men, also reflected on her unique perspective within the royal fold. As Lady Frederick Windsor, she has a close view of royal life but insists the public scrutiny they face is far from enviable.
"The more I get to know the Royal Family, the more I get that their lives are total hell and that level of unasked-for fame is a form of torture,” she said. “None of them went on Pop Idol to be famous. To have that sort of blinding spotlight in your face from when you’re born is just brutal.”
Thomas Kingston died aged 45 in 2024
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Despite their privileged position, she said the family’s dedication to charitable causes is often overlooked.
She revealed: “The senior royals work really hard with thousands of charities in Britain and around the world.
"Princess Anne does nearly 500 engagements per year. The Duchess of Edinburgh has just come back from Sudan, meeting surgeons who operate on violently raped toddlers — that is traumatic, serious work."
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Away from royal life, Winkleman continues to balance her acting career with motherhood and her campaign against children’s exposure to social media and educational technology.
She is set to star in the ITV drama Wild Cherry, while continuing to advocate for stricter limits on screen use in schools.
Sophie Winkleman revealed the loss of Thomas Kingston had a major impact on her family
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Reflecting on the tragedy, she said the experience has deepened her appreciation for life’s fragility. “You never know what people are battling behind closed doors,” she added.
“It’s made us all hold each other a little tighter.”
Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.