Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been at the center of debates over their royal titles. Despite relocating to the United States, they retained their titles as senior working royals. However, recent events have reignited the discussion about whether they should keep their esteemed positions.
The controversy surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s titles stems from their decision to step back from royal duties and move to the United States in 2020. Their departure from the royal fold, dubbed ‘Megxit,’ elicited both shock and support from the public and media. Since then, the couple has built a new life in California, focusing on various humanitarian and media ventures, including partnerships with streaming giants Netflix and Spotify.
Despite their physical and professional separation from the royal family, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to use their titles. This has sparked ongoing controversy about whether it is appropriate for them to retain such honors while living a life that differs significantly from traditional royal responsibilities. Critics argue that their use of royal titles in commercial endeavors could be seen as exploiting their royal status for personal gain, which some view as contradictory to monarchical values.
The situation has been exacerbated by the couple’s candid interviews and public statements, in which they have openly acknowledged their conflicts within the royal family. Notably, their 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey revealed various issues, including claims of racism and a lack of support from the palace. These revelations have strained relations with the royal family and fueled calls to reevaluate their titles.
In recent months, the topic has resurfaced, with reports suggesting that Buckingham Palace is considering stripping Harry and Meghan of their titles. The palace has neither confirmed nor denied the speculation, further heightening the intrigue and curiosity surrounding the couple’s future position in the royal hierarchy.
Supporters of Harry and Meghan believe that their titles are part of their identity and heritage and that removing them would be an unwarranted punishment. They emphasize the couple’s continued humanitarian efforts and their work to raise awareness about critical issues like mental health, racial equality, and environmental protection. From this perspective, stripping them of their titles would overshadow the positive impact they have made outside the royal framework.
Opponents argue that allowing them to keep their titles while enjoying a celebrity lifestyle in America diminishes the royal institution’s dignity and exclusivity. They contend that to maintain the monarchy’s integrity, a clear line should be drawn between those who fulfill royal duties and those who do not.
As the debate continues, it remains unclear how the royal family will handle this delicate matter. The potential removal of titles from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle involves more than just protocol; it also touches on public opinion and the monarchy’s evolving role in the modern world. With the palace remaining silent, speculation abounds, and the anticipation of a possible decision has the public and media on edge.
Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan continue to establish their brand and legacy in the United States. Whether or not they retain their royal titles, their influence and the public’s interest in their lives remain strong. Their transition from senior royals to independent public figures exemplifies the challenges and opportunities of balancing tradition with personal autonomy in the twenty-first century.
However, one issue is currently holding Prince Harry back. It appears that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have stopped searching for a place to live in London due to security concerns.
Prince Harry wishes to return to the United Kingdom, but it is unlikely that he will be able to do so soon. Since the Sussexes were ejected from Frogmore Cottage in 2023, Prince Harry has had to stay in hotels or at a friend’s residence whenever he visits the UK. This is one of the reasons he has been hunting for his own home.
According to a source familiar with the matter, “Harry really wants to spend more time in the UK but does not feel comfortable doing so until the security issues are resolved.”