Meghan Markle, also known as the Duchess of Sussex, could be called Princess Henry if she were to be stripped of her current title.
A transition to Princess Henry might arise despite the unlikely loss of the Duchess title, according to royal expertise, New York Post reported.
Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry—formally recognized as Prince Henry Charles Albert David—relinquished their royal duties in 2020. The couple subsequently settled in California but have kept a high profile, participating in events like the South by Southwest Conference in Texas on March 8, 2024. Despite their reduced royal roles, Meghan's title could mirror her husband's, changing to Princess Henry, similar to how Kate Middleton is technically known as Princess William.
Ingrid Seward, a distinguished royal expert, suggests that King Charles III is unlikely to make such a drastic move as revoking their titles. "I don't think anything will happen to the titles because, if they lose their titles, Harry is still a Prince of the blood, and Meghan, instead of being the Duchess of Sussex, [would] be Princess Nenry," stated Seward.
Seward articulated concerns that stripping their titles could confuse and appear unjust to the public, especially in America. "That really would [confuse the Americans]," she mentioned. She believes maintaining the status quo is preferable.
According to Seward, letting the couple retain their titles avoids unnecessary negativity. "The Queen gave them the titles; let them keep them – they're going to be 'H and M' anyway," she reasoned.
Discussions about the viability of Meghan and Harry retaining their royal titles have occasioned debates among senior royals like Prince William and King Charles. Royal author Tom Quinn remarked on these discussions and the caution about their potential outcome. He noted, "They are terrified this would backfire and make the
situation worse," underscoring fears of exacerbating tensions.
The possibility of title removal has been contentious, with criticism centering on the couple's use of their royal connections despite stepping back from official duties. Yet, none of the royal family reportedly maintains a speaking relationship with Meghan and Harry. This disconnect underscores a complex dynamic as the couple navigates life outside the royal inner circle.
Tom Quinn focuses on the implications of title removal. He underscored Harry and Meghan's persistent influence internationally: "William and his father know that even without their royal titles, Meghan and Harry would carry on traveling the world as if they were royals, and most people in the world will still welcome them." This assertion reflects a broader understanding that their global appeal extends beyond mere titles.
Their recent travels, including a notable visit to Nigeria from May 10 to May 11, 2024, further signify their active presence on the international stage. They also appeared at the April 2024 Royal Salute Polo Challenge, reinforcing their continued engagement with global societal events.
Debates on the potential removal of Meghan and Harry's titles reflect broader discussions about the role and relevance of royal branding in the modern age. The situation illustrates the delicate balance the royal family must strike in managing traditional protocols while adapting to contemporary societal norms and opinions.
This complex situation encapsulates ongoing discussions about identity, perception, and the intricate structures of royal traditions as the couple forges ahead with their lives, poised between their royal past and their current public endeavors.
Despite their titles' complexities, Meghan and Harry's global influence remains significant, emphasizing the enduring interest and scrutiny they command worldwide. Whether altered or not, their titles symbolize broader themes of heritage, identity, and the intersection of public and private life in contemporary discourse.
