Five years after stepping back from their roles as senior working members of the Royal Family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have once again drawn public attention — this time over how their name and titles are being formally used.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex left royal duties in 2020, citing intense pressure and internal difficulties within the institution. While they relinquished official responsibilities, they retained their titles under an agreement with Buckingham Palace, with the understanding that “His/Her Royal Highness” would no longer be used and that the titles would not be employed for commercial purposes.

The Sussex Name and What Has Changed

In recent years, Meghan confirmed that “Sussex” is now the family’s official surname — a designation granted by Queen Elizabeth II at the time of the couple’s wedding in 2018. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, also use the

Observers note that this clarification reflects a gradual formalisation of how the couple identify themselves publicly, aligning legal, personal, and family naming conventions with the life they have built outside royal service.

Renewed Attention After Harper’s Bazaar

The issue resurfaced following Meghan’s appearance on the cover of Harpe (Dece
“Meghan, Duchess

Although only two people were present, the detail sparked widespread discussion online. Some critics viewed the emphasis on the title as unnecessary, given the Sussexes’ decision to step away from royal life.

Several royal commentators questioned whether Meghan should continue to be introduced by her title in semi-formal settings. US-based commentator Kinsey Schofield criticised the inclusion of the moment, suggesting it could have been removed from the article.

However, etiquette expert Myka Meier offered a counterpoint, explaining that the use of a British title in social or professional settings — including in the United States — is neither unusual nor improper.

“Especially when the individual is widely known by that title,” Meier said, adding that how a member of the royal family chooses to be addressed is ultimately a personal decision.

She further noted that in Meghan’s case, using her title formally is likely a matter of protocol and personal preference rather than a breach of etiquette or royal rules.

A Natural Evolution, Not a Return to Royal Life

Royal analysts stress that none of these developments affect the line of succession or signal a return to official royal duties. Instead, they reflect how Harry and Meghan continue to define their identity beyond the monarchy while maintaining historical ties to it.

Since relocating to the United States, the couple have focused on family life, philanthropy, and media projects through Archewell Productions. Over time, they have increasingly presented themselves simply as Harry and Meghan, while still acknowledging the titles that remain part of their legal status.

Public Debate Continues

As with many aspects of the Sussexes’ post-royal life, public opinion remains divided. Supporters argue that the couple are entitled to use the names and titles legally granted to them, while critics see the continued emphasis as contradictory.

What is clear, however, is that five years on, Harry and Meghan are still navigating how tradition, identity, and independence intersect — and the conversation around their name reflects that ongoing transition rather than a single dramatic change.