Meghan Markle’s Title Use Reignites Royal Debate
Duchess of Sussex sparks discussion over “Her Royal Highness” designation
Meghan Markle has once again become the center of a royal controversy, with her recent appearance seemingly utilizing the “Her Royal Highness” title she had pledged not to employ in official capacities.
Promotional Video Draws Scrutiny
A clip shared via her brand, “As Ever,” on Instagram featured Meghan Markle promoting the cookbook *Together: Our Community Cookbook*, for which she penned the foreword. The video snippet appeared to display her full royal designation, “Her Royal Highness.”
While Meghan Markle retained the title after stepping back from senior royal duties in 2020, she had agreed not to use it officially.
Previous Instances and Palace Agreement
This instance follows a report from the BBC a few months prior, indicating Meghan Markle used the HRH title on a card accompanying a personal gift to US cosmetics entrepreneur Jamie Kern Lima. The card reportedly read, “With the Compliments of HRH The Duchess of Sussex.”
Following their departure from senior royal roles, Buckingham Palace stated that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle “will not use their HRH titles as they are no longer working members of the Royal Family.” This 2020 agreement, sanctioned by Queen Elizabeth II, also stipulated they would cease receiving public funds and holding official military appointments.
Sources close to the couple informed the BBC that the wording on the earlier card did not violate the agreement, as it was not for any public or official engagement. Nevertheless, the recent appearances have rekindled questions about whether Meghan Markle is adhering to the spirit of the original palace statement.
Recent polling suggests a divided public opinion on the use of royal titles by non-working royals. A survey by YouGov in late 2023 indicated that 48% of Britons felt that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should not use their royal titles, while 34% believed they should still be allowed to use them (YouGov).
