Harry and Meghan Embrace ‘Sussex’ as Family Name in a Bold Shift
After stepping back from their royal duties, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were asked by Queen Elizabeth II not to use the “Sussex Royal” label for branding. While they initially used the title on their Instagram and website, they later transitioned to “Archewell,” the name of their nonprofit foundation and media company, inspired by their son Archie.
In a notable move following King Charles III’s coronation, the couple officially adopted “Sussex” as the surname for their children, Archie and Lilibet—replacing their original last name, Mountbatten-Windsor. This change came after both children were granted royal titles of Prince and Princess in the wake of Queen Elizabeth’s passing.
The shift was recently underscored in a conversation between Meghan and actress Mindy Kaling, where Meghan gently corrected Kaling for calling her “Meghan Markle.” “I’m Sussex now,” she said, adding that sharing a surname with her children is deeply meaningful to her.
While supporters applaud the decision as a personal and unifying step for the family, critics argue it reflects a calculated effort to remain in the spotlight while still distancing themselves from the traditional royal institution.