I really think that the pandemic was the making of these two (as well as a certain couple leaving the RF)
I liked them before, most certainly, but they were "just there." When restrictions became less and the Royals started to go out and about again they seemed to be seen more especially as the older members were still classed as vulnerable.
Edward and Sophie have become, in my opinion, invaluable to the RF. Hard working and in Sophie's case, not frightened of speaking up about scary subjects. Plus, as we all know she has the BEST death stare.