Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have changed their children’s surnames in a move that comes after their children gained new titles within the Royal family.
In a groundbreaking move that underscores their unique position within the British royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have introduced an interesting approach to their children’s surnames.
Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Prince Archie during a photocall in St George’s Hall at Windsor Castle in 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Their two children, Archie, aged 4, and Lilibet, aged 2, previously known by the surnames “Mountbatten-Windsor,” have now embraced their royal titles as part of their official last names.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Archie at the at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in South Africa in 2019 | Source: Getty Images
In a gesture well-received by Harry and Meghan, when he ascended the throne in 2022, King Charles III offered his grandchildren the prestigious prince and princess titles. They accepted the titles, but it was only later that they were used for the first time.
This remarkable transition was publicly acknowledged in March 2023 during the christening of Princess Lilibet, where the titles were officially used for the first time. The children’s names have since been updated on the royal family’s official website to “Prince Archie of Sussex” and “Princess Lilibet of Sussex,” reflecting the name Harry and Meghan had been using all along.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Archie at the at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in South Africa in 2019 | Source: Getty Images
The adoption of “Sussex” as the children’s surname aligns with royal traditions, where titles and territorial designations often serve as surnames, further embedding the children’s royal lineage and their parents’ legacy within their names. This approach to surnames follows a historical precedent within the royal family, where names and titles are deeply intertwined with identity and heritage.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Archie at the at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in South Africa in 2019 | Source: Getty Images
As outlined on the official royal website, royal surnames often reflect paternal lineage. However, the royal family has its unique traditions, with sovereigns often adopting the name of their ‘House’ from their father. The ‘House’ name does not always translate to a surname, though.
Harry and Meghan’s children, who were before known by the “Mountbatten-Windsor” surname now share a surname with their parents, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
As previously reported on February 13:
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently launched a new website, transitioning from the Sussex Royal URL handle to simply Sussex. Despite stepping back from official royal duties, they continue to use their titles, Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The website includes a section designed to offer the public more insight into their lives and work.
Notably, Meghan’s page introduces her using only her first name, omitting her family name. This decision reflects a common practice among British Royals, who are frequently referred to by their first names and titles.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at The Sunken Gardens at Kensington Palace on November 27, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan’s narrative on the site includes her upbringing, painting a picture of her journey from a young South California girl to the influential figure she is today. The page also featured her advocacies for women, mental health, gender equality, and family care.
Meghan Markle at the Variety Power of Women event in Los Angeles, California on November 16, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan’s impact and recognition are also highlighted through her inclusion in various world rankings, marking her as a notable figure on the global stage.
Now residing in California as a mother of two, Meghan and Harry have embarked on a new chapter away from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, whose names are emblematic of their continued connection to Harry’s heritage, are a significant part of their lives in America.
