Royal update follows Duchess’s podcast appearance and increased use of Sussex branding
Just hours after Meghan Markle’s latest podcast interview stirred headlines, Buckingham Palace released an official update that many see as a veiled response to the growing controversy surrounding her royal titles.
Meghan, who has been barred from using her ‘HRH’ designation since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, reignited tensions by prominently using her Duchess of Sussex title to promote her new lifestyle brand, As Ever. The move has raised eyebrows within royal circles and sparked fresh debate over her continued use of royal styling.
In what appeared to be a carefully timed contrast, the Palace on Monday celebrated a loyal working royal: the Duke of Kent.
“A wonderful day honouring young awardees of The King’s Scout Award — the highest recognition in Scouting adventure and skill development,” the Palace posted, alongside images of the Duke at Windsor Castle. The event marked 50 years of the Duke’s service with the Scouts, and notably referred to him using his full His Royal Highness styling.
The post has been interpreted by royal commentators as a quiet but pointed reminder of where royal favour currently lies — with figures who have remained steadfast in their roles.
Royal insiders have long noted that King Charles and Prince William place high value on loyalty. Since the release of Harry’s memoir Spare, relations between the Sussexes and the rest of the Royal Family have remained strained. Despite attempts at reconciliation, the Palace’s latest move suggests the divide is far from healed.
With Meghan’s public use of her title becoming more assertive, the royal response — or lack thereof — may signal that the Firm no longer considers the Sussexes part of the inner royal circle.
