Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have made several moves to establish a clear family identity since stepping back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020. Among these changes is the use of the titles “Prince” and “Princess” for their two children, Archie and Lilibet, following the accession of King Charles III.
Background: Stepping Back from Royal Duties
In early 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan announced their decision to step back from official royal duties. Following discussions with Queen Elizabeth II, it was agreed that they would no longer use the term “Sussex Royal” for branding purposes【source: BBC News】. Respecting the Queen’s wishes, they transitioned their online presence to focus on the Archewell Foundation, named after their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor【source: Archewell Foundation】.
Since moving to California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have concentrated on philanthropic initiatives, media production, and advocacy work through Archewell.
Archie and Lilibet’s Titles After King Charles III’s Accession
At the time of Archie’s birth in 2019, he did not automatically receive a royal title, based on a 1917 letters patent issued by King George V【source: Royal.uk】. However, after Queen Elizabeth II’s passing and King Charles III’s accession in 2022, Archie and Lilibet became eligible for royal titles as grandchildren of the monarch through the male line.
In March 2023, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex confirmed that their children would be referred to as Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex【source: BBC News】.
Surnames and Royal Conventions
Traditionally, the descendants of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip who do not carry royal titles have used the surname Mountbatten-Windsor【source: Royal.uk】. There has been no official announcement confirming any legal change to Archie or Lilibet’s surname from Mountbatten-Windsor to Sussex.
Archie and Lilibet’s formal identification in public contexts generally uses their titles—Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex—rather than a surname. It is common practice for titled royal family members to be referred to by their titles in official and public use.
Meghan Markle’s Reflections on Family Identity
In an interview with actress Mindy Kaling【source: People Magazine】, Meghan Markle reflected on the significance of sharing a family name with her children. She expressed that having a unified family identity held deep personal meaning for her. However, her remarks referred to emotional unity and were not an official statement about a legal surname change.
Public Rebranding Efforts
Prince Harry and Meghan have updated their website to Sussex.com, reflecting their focus on the Sussex title in their public communications【source: Sussex.com】. Their Archewell Foundation remains active, focusing on charitable initiatives and advocacy work.
Public Reactions
Public reactions to the use of their children’s royal titles have been varied, with some observers supportive of the couple maintaining a connection to their royal heritage, while others have raised questions about the balance between privacy and public visibility【source: BBC News Comment Sections】. However, the couple has maintained their focus on personal and charitable pursuits.
Conclusion
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to prioritize building a life centered on philanthropy, media work, and advocacy, while honoring their family’s royal heritage. Their children, Archie and Lilibet, are now officially recognized as Prince and Princess of Sussex, reflecting their place within the royal family structure.
There has been no official confirmation of a legal surname change for Archie and Lilibet. As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue their work and family life in California, they remain committed to shaping a future guided by their values and vision for their family.
- BBC News – Harry and Meghan to Stop Using Sussex Royal Brand
- Royal.uk – Titles and Surnames of the Royal Family
- Archewell Foundation – About Us
- People Magazine – Meghan Markle Interview with Mindy Kaling
- Sussex.com – Official Website of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex