As the royal family continues to evolve, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children—Archie and Lilibet—won’t be stepping into official roles when Prince William eventually takes the throne.
According to insiders, the next royal chapter likely won’t include a return to working royal life for the Sussex children.
Harry’s Hopes for Royal Titles Spark Royal Puzzlement
Reports earlier this year suggested Prince Harry was keen for Archie, 6, and Lilibet, 4, to keep their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles.
He reportedly hoped this would leave the door open for them to choose royal duties as adults if they wished.
But insiders told The Times that the idea caused “bemusement in royal circles,” with one source bluntly saying, “William doesn’t talk about his brother anymore.”
Sources close to the Palace suggested that when William becomes King, there are no plans to assign roles to the Sussex children.
Having grown up in California, Archie and Lilibet are considered more American than royal, often seen in glimpses posted by Meghan showing them making treats or celebrating birthdays.
Passport Drama and the ‘Spencer’ Surname Consideration
Adding to the royal drama, a Guardian report claimed that the couple’s children’s UK passports were being delayed over the HRH title issue.
At one point, Harry and Meghan even considered giving their children the surname Spencer—a tribute to Princess Diana’s maiden name.
Buckingham Palace didn’t confirm or deny if there were objections to issuing passports with HRH titles, simply stating “No” when asked, but declining further comment.
Meghan’s Controversial Use of HRH Stirs Old Debates
Despite their agreement with the late Queen Elizabeth II to stop using their HRH titles after stepping down as working royals, Meghan Markle has reportedly continued using hers in private.
A recent example included a food hamper sent to a friend with a note reading “With the compliments of HRH The Duchess of Sussex.”
While their HRH styles haven’t been formally removed, Meghan and Harry previously committed not to use them for commercial purposes.
A spokesperson for the couple clarified that the note in question was likely from before Meghan launched her As Ever brand.
The Long and Bitter Divide Between the Royal Brothers
Meanwhile, the rift between Harry and William seems deeper than ever.
A friend of Prince William told The Times that while the divide once weighed heavily on the heir to the throne, “he’s not letting it get to him anymore.”
After years of emotional turmoil and disappointment, William is reportedly focused on his duties and family.
The tension intensified after Harry published his memoir Spare, in which he claimed William called Meghan “difficult,” “rude,” and “abrasive.”
One incident allegedly even ended with William pushing Harry into a dog bowl.
Silent Contact Amid Kate’s Health Scare
After news broke about Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis earlier this year, reports claimed Harry and Meghan reached out to William and Kate privately.
However, sources in the U.S. suggested the couple found out about Kate’s condition at the same time as the public.
Soon after, they released a brief statement wishing her “health and healing.”
Still, no signs of reconciliation have emerged publicly.
The last time the brothers were seen together was at the funeral of their uncle, Robert Fellowes.
Harry’s BBC Interview Adds More Fuel
In a recent interview with the BBC from Santa Barbara, Harry expressed disappointment over his strained relationship with King Charles.
He revealed that since losing a court appeal over his family’s security, the King had stopped communicating with him.
“Life is precious,” Harry said. “I don’t know how much longer my father has.
He won’t speak to me because of this security stuff. It would be nice to reconcile.”
William Marks Birthday Surrounded by Love—and Puppies
While all this family drama simmers in the background, Prince William quietly celebrated his 43rd birthday. His father, King Charles, posted a never-before-seen image of William in a peaceful outdoor setting with a short message: “Happy Birthday to The Prince of Wales!”
Kate also joined in, sharing an adorable photo of William playing with puppies—believed to be Orla’s offspring—captioned with love from their children and family: “Happy birthday! Love C, G, C, L, Orla and the puppies!”
William’s birthday week had him attending key royal events, including Trooping the Colour and Royal Ascot, as he continues to lean into his growing role within the monarchy.