Future king said to be determined to protect monarchy’s image amid ongoing Sussex controversy
Prince William is reportedly taking a firm stance on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s continued use of royal titles—despite the couple having stepped away from their duties in 2020. According to royal insiders, the Prince of Wales is consulting legal advisers about what actions can be taken to strip the Sussexes of their Duke and Duchess titles, a move seen as a bid to draw a clearer line between royal duty and personal branding.
Although Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals, they still retain their “His/Her Royal Highness” (HRH) styles, which they are not permitted to use publicly or commercially. Tensions flared again when Meghan recently used her HRH styling on a note attached to a gift—sparking accusations of breaching the Sandringham Agreement they signed upon stepping down.
Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield claimed she had been aware of Prince William’s intentions for weeks, saying:
“Prince William believes the Sussexes are using their titles to remain relevant, while actively harming the monarchy’s image.”
She added that William “does not shy from confrontation” the way King Charles has in the past, and that “he won’t put up with them” if they continue crossing royal boundaries.
While William may be resolute, legal experts including Hilary Fordwich explain that removing royal peerage titles, such as Duke and Duchess of Sussex, would require an act of Parliament. This means that even as king, William could not act unilaterally. However, the reigning monarch does have the authority to formally revoke the HRH styling, as was done with Edward VIII after his abdication.
The situation has reportedly reached a point where William wants to send a clear message, both to Harry and Meghan and to the public, about accountability and the importance of respecting the Crown.
No official comment has been made by Kensington Palace, but the mounting scrutiny, especially during King Charles’s ongoing cancer treatment, has put additional pressure on the institution—and on William—as he steadily prepares for his future role as king.
