When Meghan and Harry Left the Royal Family: Did They Give Up Their Titles?

The departure of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry from the royal family has been a subject of much debate and speculation. Many people have questioned whether they truly gave up their titles or if they merely continue to use them for personal and financial gain.

Did Meghan and Harry Resign from the Royal Family?

It is important to clarify that while the couple stepped back from their royal duties, they did not resign from the royal family. In their letter to The Sun, released on October 29, 2019, they expressed their intention to maintain their involvement with the royal family while stepping back. They emphasized that they were "stepping back as senior members of the Royal Family," rather than resigning.

Did They Lose Their HRH Title?

Following their announcement, the couple were no longer allowed to use the HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) designation, as specified in their letter to The Sunday Times. However, they retained their titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex. This decision was made by the British government to ensure clarity and to differentiate their status from that of other senior royals.

Harry's Birth Title and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex Title

Prince Harry, born as a royal prince by birthright, remains a prince by virtue of his royal lineage. Even though they handed back their royal duties, the couple's marriage title (Duke and Duchess of Sussex) was bestowed upon them at the time of their wedding on May 19, 2018. This title is legally and royally recognized, and it would take an act of Parliament to remove it. Therefore, despite stepping back from their royal duties, they still retain the Duke and Duchess title.

Financial Considerations and Use of Titles

Some critics argue that the couple retains their titles for personal and financial gain. It is true that the use of the HRH title and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex moniker has allowed them to make substantial money through their various ventures. For instance, both Meghan and Harry have launched successful businesses, including Archewell, which they use for their philanthropic and business endeavors. The couple's decision to leverage their titles for personal and financial purposes has been a subject of scrutiny and debate.

Public Perception and Criticism

The Sussex family's decision to transition their lives without entirely stepping back from the royal family has stirred controversy. Critics argue that their continued use of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex title is hypocritical, given their public criticisms of the royal family over time. For example, despite claiming the royal family treated them unfairly and discriminated against them, they maintained their marriage title and continued to use it for financial gains.

Final Thoughts

While Meghan and Harry have stepped back from their royal duties, they have not given up their titles. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex title remains legally recognized, and it continues to play a role in their public life and business ventures. Whether this title is truly helpful or detrimental to their cause remains a matter of public debate.

Their continued use of the title highlights the complex nature of the royal family's structure and the blurred lines between duty and privilege. As the couple navigates their new lives, the public and media will continue to scrutinize their actions and decisions.