King Charles and Prince William are reportedly engaged in serious discussions about stripping Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their royal titles. Despite the potential for significant public backlash, the father-son duo is contemplating this measure as they grow increasingly frustrated with the couple's actions.
Prince Harry and Meghan, who currently hold the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been a source of contention since stepping down as senior working royals in 2020. Following their departure, the couple moved to the United States, where they have capitalized on their royal connections, securing lucrative deals worth over $100 million. Their high-profile lifestyle in Montecito, California, alongside their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, continues to draw significant media attention.
According to sources via Globe magazine, Charles and William are particularly incensed by Harry and Meghan's recent activities, including a trip to Nigeria that had all the hallmarks of a royal tour. Although the visit was unofficial, the couple was treated with the deference typically reserved for active royals, with their titles prominently displayed during public appearances. "The last thing they want is to give the renegades something else to complain about," said royal expert Tom Quinn.
The idea of stripping the Sussexes of their titles is not without precedent. Harry and Meghan lost their "royal highness" status when they ceased performing official duties. However, their titles as Duke and Duchess of Sussex have remained intact, much to the chagrin of critics who argue that the couple exploits these titles while shirking the responsibilities that come with them.
A 2020 survey conducted by Tatler magazine revealed that 68% of Britons supported stripping Harry and Meghan of their titles. Subsequent surveys suggest that this sentiment has only grown stronger over time. Despite this public opinion, Charles and William are cautious about proceeding with such a drastic step. "They are terrified this would backfire and make the situation worse," Quinn explained.
Quinn further asserted that stripping the titles might be futile, as Harry and Meghan would likely continue to enjoy the same public reception. "Even without their royal titles, Meghan and Harry would carry on traveling the world as if they were royals and most people in the world will still welcome them," he said.
The controversy surrounding Harry and Meghan's recent visit to Nigeria underscores the complexities of their current status. The trip, which included receptions, visits to schools and charities, and engagements with wounded soldiers and the disabled, mirrored official royal duties. This has reportedly angered King Charles more than ever before. "Charles is said to be angrier than anyone has ever seen him," Quinn noted.
"For Charles and William, it’s as if Meghan and Harry are saying, ‘We don’t need your permission to be working royals — we will do it on our own terms whenever and wherever we like,’" Quinn continued. This independent approach has left the royal family grappling with how to manage the situation.
Despite the internal strife, sources within the palace caution that stripping the titles might be more trouble than it’s worth. "To many people, who have no idea of royal protocol or even care, Harry and Meghan will always be ‘prince’ or ‘duke and duchess’ no matter what the king does," said a source. "So stripping the titles would be a waste of time and make Charles and William look like petty sore losers."