WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ROYALS GIVING UP THEIR TITLES

Earlier this month, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, have decided to give up their royal titles. They’ve informed the public that they’ve chosen to continue to support the Queen, while becoming financially independent.

The Susseexes proposed a hybrid role, where they would seek personal income, while adhering to the Queen. In response, the Palace gave them two options, they were either in or out. They chose out.

According to the news network, CNN, at a recent charity dinner Prince Harry states,“Our hope was to continue serving the Queen, the commonwealth, and my military associations, but without public funding. Unfortunately, that wasn’t possible.”

Meghan respectfully received the title, “Her Royal Highness (HRH) The Duchess of Sussex” after her marriage in 2018 to Prince Harry with the full title of “His Royal Highness The Duke of Sussex, Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel.” So, how does parting from the royal family ultimately affect their titles?

Princess Diana’s (HRH) had been taken away after her divorce from Prince Charles. Her new given title would be, “Diana, Princess of Wales.” However, the situation regarding the Sussexes is different. In fact, they’ve decided to not use these titles since they no longer can represent the Queen.

These vast changes won’t come about until the spring and even after the separation from the royal family, Megan and Harry will still attend functions that are similar to royal events.

With the Sussex's current lifestyle, the financial aspect of maintaining their substantial income might be a challenge after departing from the Queen. In the meantime, the Prince of Wales will be providing for the Sussexes through his private estate. Presumably, the amount is said to be in the low millions and it’s unclear if this will be permanent.

What does this mean for the rest of the royal family? Many questions pertain to how this move will affect William and Charles. Either they will take on Harry’s former royal duties, or his obligations will ultimately reduce the work of the royal family in the event of his absence. 

For the most part, the couple will live in North America. However, without citizenship, the Sussex’s aren’t allowed to reside in Canada for more than a six- month period. This also poses the question of how long they will be allowed to live in the United States as well.

Meghan and Harry will continue to uphold their Frogmore Cottage residence on Windsor estate, in the west of London, but must pay rent. The parting of Meghan and Harry has shocked  many. Hannah Neder, a huge fan of Meghan, states, “I’m so upset she’s no longer part of the royal family. She was my favorite duchess and I’m curious about how this event will play out in the Spring.”