Prince William is reportedly hesitant to support moves aimed at officially removing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles. His reservations stem from concerns that such an action could be perceived as a public humiliation for the couple and potentially exacerbate the ongoing rift within the royal family.
Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020 and relocating to California, Harry and Meghan have continued to utilize their Sussex titles for public appearances and branding efforts. Although they are prohibited from using their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) styles in commercial contexts, the couple has retained the titles bestowed upon them by Queen Elizabeth II during their 2018 wedding.
The debate regarding their titles has gained traction in recent weeks, particularly following an incident where Meghan included her HRH title on a card for a gift basket. Critics have raised concerns about the implications of this use, suggesting it creates a confusing overlap between their royal past and current independent lives.
While there is evident pressure from parts of the British public and media to reconsider the couple’s peerages, royal commentator Jennie Bond believes that Prince William is unlikely to give in to such demands. Bond underscores that the process of revoking titles is complex and could involve significant legal challenges. It is widely accepted that an act of Parliament would be necessary to strip Harry of his Duke of Sussex title, a move that may not be politically feasible given the pressing issues currently facing the government.
Moreover, historical precedents, like that of King Edward VIII, who maintained his Duke of Windsor title despite his abdication and self-imposed exile, further complicate the debate. Bond suggests that William would prefer to avoid engaging in public disputes with his brother, indicating a desire for a diplomatic resolution despite their strained relationship.
Additionally, following King Charles III’s accession in 2022, Harry and Meghan’s children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, became eligible for royal titles. This decision, met with criticism, was defended by the Sussexes, who stated that the children’s titles are a birthright linked to their grandfather’s position as monarch.
Meghan’s ongoing use of HRH is a sensitive issue, and Bond asserts that losing their royal designations would profoundly affect the couple, particularly in the eyes of their supporters in the U.S. For now, William seems to prioritize maintaining peace and avoiding further conflict, though the future of this delicate familial relationship remains uncertain.
This situation reflects the complexities and challenges faced by the royal family as they navigate modern expectations while also upholding traditions. Observers will be keen to see how the dynamics between William and Harry evolve amidst these tensions.