Meghan’s quiet use of royal styling sparks outrage—but only the King holds partial power
Meghan Markle’s recent use of the “HRH” title has once again stirred controversy—and reportedly left Prince William furious. But the question remains: can the Sussexes be formally stripped of their royal titles?
The answer, as royal experts explain, is both yes and no.
Although speculation swirls that Prince William might revoke his brother and sister-in-law’s titles once he becomes king, he doesn’t actually have that authority. When Queen Elizabeth II granted the Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles in 2018, they became protected under British law. As such, removing them would require an act of Parliament—not a royal decree.
While a proposed Removal of Titles Bill aimed to allow such action either by the monarch or a parliamentary committee, it has not yet become law.
However, there is a distinction when it comes to the “HRH” styling. According to legal scholar Master Graham Zellick, that honorific can be removed by the King at his sole discretion. “It could be withdrawn by the King, a decision that would not be amenable to judicial review,” Zellick wrote, pointing out that stepping down as working royals and living abroad could justify the decision.
The current uproar stems from Meghan's note attached to a gift basket sent to friend Jamie Kern Lima, signed “With compliments of HRH The Duchess of Sussex,” complete with her royal cipher—despite the 2020 agreement that she and Harry would no longer use the “HRH” title.
As for Harry’s title of “Prince,” that remains a birthright and is effectively untouchable.
In summary: Prince William cannot personally strip the Sussexes of their formal titles—but King Charles could remove the “HRH” styling at any moment. Whether he will remains to be seen.
