Harry, Meghan Break 64-Year Royal Tradition in Surprise Move

Photo : AFP

In a break from tradition, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have opted to change the surnames of their children, Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie, to Sussex instead of Mountbatten-Windsor. This decision, noted on their new website sussex.com, marks a departure from the surname decree of Mountbatten-Windsor by the Privy Council in 1960, established for male-line descendants of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

According to sources cited by The Times, the launch of sussex.com signifies a significant moment for the Sussex family, reflecting their unity under a shared surname for the first time since King Charles's coronation. The move is described as a point of pride and unification for the couple and their children.

However, their use of royal titles for Archie and Lilibet has sparked surprise and criticism, with some accusing them of emphasizing their ties to the British Royal Family. The website, titled "The Office of Prince Harry & Meghan, The Duke & Duchess of Sussex," features a personalized coat of arms for Meghan and detailed biographies for both Harry and Meghan separately.

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Notably, Harry's bio on the site mentions his residence in California with Meghan and their children, referring to Archie and Lilibet as "Prince" and "Princess." This designation has drawn attention given that neither child was initially granted royal titles at birth due to their status as grandchildren of the monarch. Their status changed after King Charles ascended the throne in 2022, altering their formal titles.

Overall, the couple's decisions regarding their children's surnames and titles have stirred debate about their relationship with the royal institution and their approach to defining their family's identity post-royal duties.