Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s place within the Royal Family could look very different once Prince William becomes King. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams believes the Sussexes could be caught up in William’s plans to streamline the monarchy.
The comments come as Harry and Meghan continue to navigate their changed role within the Royal Family. The couple remain non-working royals and do not use their HRH titles. Now, many are questioning how William’s future reign could affect the Sussexes.
Prince William could slim down the monarchy in a move that may put the Sussex family’s titles at risk, per expert
Speaking to the Express, royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said, ”Harry’s royal standing may very well be affected by his and Meghan’s decision to come back to Britain, blindsiding the King and the Royal Family.”
He further added, “He and Meghan have the world’s attention. However, so long as the rift with William persists, there remains the possibility that when he becomes King, he will reduce the size of the royal family.”
The issue is particularly relevant because Harry and Meghan retained their titles as Duke and Duchess of Sussex after stepping back from royal duties in 2020. However, they agreed not to use their HRH styles in an official capacity.
Fitzwilliams suggested that Harry, Meghan, and their children could potentially lose their titles. He said, “They and their children and Beatrice and Eugenie could lose their titles.”
He added that such a move “would reduce their appeal, though not, at least for a considerable time, their public profile.” Looking ahead to William’s reign, Fitzwilliams said, “When William ascends the throne, they might not have this opportunity.” Further added, “We still don’t definitively know why they are in Britain.”
The possibility of a smaller monarchy under William could leave the Sussexes facing a very different royal future. For now, Fitzwilliams’ comments have put their titles and place within the institution back under the spotlight.
