King Charles's decision to remove the royal titles of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet has ignited widespread discussion and controversy. The move, rooted in the broader royal family strategy to slim down the monarchy, reflects longstanding tensions following Harry and Meghan's step back from senior royal duties in 2020.
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When Archie was born, he was not initially given a princely title due to existing royal rules placing him further down the line of succession. However, upon King Charles's accession to the throne, Archie and Lilibet automatically became prince and princess by right. Despite this, the Sussexes’ choice to live in the United States and their public critique of the monarchy strained their standing within the royal institution.
King Charles reportedly views Archie and Lilibet’s future more aligned with Hollywood than with Windsor, making public recognition complicated. Additionally, Prince William’s camp is said to be keen on a streamlined monarchy focusing on his own children, seeing Archie and Lilibet’s titles as a potential source of public backlash.
The monarch holds the legal authority to rescind the HRH titles, unlike peerages which require parliamentary approval. This power has been discussed as a way to prevent confusion and controversy regarding royal roles and privileges.
The palace stresses that Harry and Meghan’s choices led to these consequences. The couple had reportedly sought formal use of the titles on passports and in professional settings, prompting tension within the royal household.
In summary, King Charles’s removal of Archie and Lilibet’s royal titles is part of a strategic Royal Family adjustment, balancing tradition, public perception, and the Sussexes’ unique position. This move underscores the complexities of modern monarchy and the lasting impact of the Sussexes’ departure on the royal legacy.