Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 has raised questions about the future roles of their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The couple’s move reportedly came as a near-complete surprise to Prince William. It’s done one other, very regrettable, thing—deepening the discord between the two brothers in just five years. As the drama plays out, the royal family is left in limbo about the children’s titles and future roles in royal life.
Today, all eyes are on Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, who were both given royal titles. They are growing up in California and developing very distinctly American accents. This new royal environment raises interesting questions about how they will fit into the rest of royal life. Might they eventually assume formal roles someday?
Prince William, who is next in line for the throne, has indicated plans for a “tidying-up exercise” upon his ascension. This move could include the official removal of HRH styles from Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and their kids. Perhaps unsurprisingly, a close friend of Prince William dismissed the prospect of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet performing royal duties as “beyond parody.” This statement is telling of how the royal court expects to be received with their potential proposals.
Most recently, and in spite of these tensions, Prince Harry has vocalized his willingness to make amends both with King Charles as well as with Prince William. Yet his very public condemnation of the monarchy and her family members have put an irrevocable distance between him and his brother. King Charles has no plans to strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their HRH titles. In the opposite camp, Prince William appears oddly intent on following through on his agenda. He doesn’t back away from the idea of formally revoking the titles for his brother’s family.
As debates on the royal family’s future continue, the monarchy will need to tread these confusing waters with great sensitivity. As Prince William looks ahead to his eventual ascendance to the throne, so too does the potential for change. These are the children’s identities we’ll be shaping with the decisions we make. They will affect how the world sees the monarchy today, as well.
