Prince William is reportedly preparing for a dramatic change in royal protocol that could see Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children officially stripped of their HRH titles once he becomes king.
The bold decision would have significant consequences for Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, who currently live in California with their parents. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the Sussexes have had minimal interaction with the rest of the royal family, and this move would cement their reduced role within the monarchy.
William Ready to Take Action
While King Charles III has resisted calls to remove the Sussexes’ titles, Prince William appears ready to make a definitive break. Sources claim that the Prince of Wales is intent on “cleaning up” royal protocols, aiming to streamline the number of active HRH titles and limit them to senior working royals only.
A close friend of William shared with The Daily Beast: “William obviously isn’t going to grant Archie and Lilibet HRH titles. This is simply trolling on Harry and Meghan’s part.”
Another royal insider added: “The Sussexes have been politely asked to stop using the HRH style, but they’ve ignored the request. When William becomes king, he’s expected to issue new letters patent, formally removing the HRH titles from Harry, Meghan, and their children.”
A Legal and Symbolic Shift
The HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) title is granted through letters patent, royal decrees that are binding. Historically, HRH titles have been revoked, such as with Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson following their divorces. This precedent shows that the titles are not automatically kept when stepping away from royal duties.
A palace source explained: “There’s a legal and constitutional difference between stepping away from duties and retaining titles. William wants to make that distinction clear when his time comes.”
Archie and Lilibet in the Crossfire
Though Harry and Meghan initially indicated that they would not use HRH titles for their children, they began doing so publicly in 2022, particularly during Lilibet’s christening, where she was formally referred to as Princess Lilibet Diana of Sussex.
Harry has reportedly made efforts to maintain HRH status for his children, perhaps leaving room for them to return to royal duties in the future if they choose. However, a royal insider quickly dismissed this idea as “beyond parody,” claiming that William has no intention of integrating Archie and Lilibet into the working royal family.
Modernizing the Monarchy
If implemented, the move would be part of Prince William’s broader efforts to modernize and streamline the monarchy. By reducing the number of royals holding formal titles and public funding, William hopes to create a more efficient institution with clearly defined roles.
A source close to the palace clarified: “It’s not about revenge; it’s about clarity and sustainability for the institution.”
As William prepares for his future as king, his approach marks a sharp contrast with his father’s. This decision could ultimately define the future of the royal family and its relationship with the public.
