Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have redefined their public lives by focusing on personal projects, charitable work through the Archewell Foundation, and raising their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Recent public attention has turned toward their children’s royal titles and potential future roles—sparking speculation about whether the couple is open to revisiting their royal affiliations.
Background: The Sussexes’ Transition from Royal Duties
In January 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced their decision to step back from their roles as senior working royals. This change—later formalized with the support of Queen Elizabeth II—meant they would no longer carry out official duties on behalf of the monarchy or receive public funding via the Sovereign Grant.
The couple relocated to North America and has since pursued independent careers in media, philanthropy, and public advocacy. Their focus has included mental health, racial justice, and digital safety through initiatives linked to their nonprofit Archewell Foundation.
Verified Source: BBC News – Royal Family Transition
Royal.uk – Statement from the Queen on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex
Royal Titles for Archie and Lilibet: What’s Official
According to the Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917, children and grandchildren of the sovereign in the male line are eligible for the titles of Prince or Princess. Upon King Charles III’s accession to the throne in September 2022, both Archie and Lilibet became entitled to use the titles Prince and Princess.
In March 2023, a spokesperson for the Sussexes confirmed that their daughter would be known as Princess Lilibet Diana, following her christening in California. This marked the first official use of the title in public communications.
The couple has consistently stated that while their children hold these titles, they are being raised privately and will have the freedom to determine their own paths in adulthood—whether inside or outside of public life.
Verified Source: People Magazine – Sussex Children’s Titles Confirmed
The Guardian – Lilibet Princess Title Use
No Official Indication of a Return to Public Royal Duties
There is currently no official indication that Prince Harry or Meghan Markle intends to return to active roles as working members of the royal family. Buckingham Palace has not issued any statement or confirmation suggesting a change in their royal status or duties.
As outlined in the 2020 agreement and reiterated during the one-year review in 2021, the couple no longer represents the monarchy in any official capacity. While they remain members of the royal family by birth and marriage, their focus is now primarily outside the UK and centered on causes they have chosen to support independently.
Verified Source: BBC News – Royal Roles Review
Royal.uk – Sussexes Statement
Recent Developments and Media Coverage
In June 2025, reports surfaced suggesting that Prince Harry and Meghan may have referenced royal titles on passport applications for their children, using the surname “Sussex” and referencing HRH titles. However, as of this writing, no official documentation or statements have been released to confirm these claims.
The HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) style is a designation traditionally used by senior royals who perform duties on behalf of the crown. When Prince Harry and Meghan stepped back from public duties, Buckingham Palace confirmed they would retain their HRH styles in name only, but not use them actively.
The same principle applies to their children, who may be titled Prince and Princess, but are not expected to use HRH styles unless they become active working royals in the future.
Verified Source: Reuters – Royal Titles Explained
Royal.uk – Style and Titles
Public Commentary and Media Ethics
Some media outlets and commentators have suggested that Prince Harry and Meghan’s choices surrounding titles signal an interest in eventually reintegrating into royal life. These interpretations are speculative and not based on formal palace communications.
Leading royal correspondents, including those from The Times, The Guardian, and ITV News, have emphasized that while the couple has maintained ties with the family, particularly during health-related visits and key ceremonies, there is no confirmed plan or intention to resume royal duties.
Royal family observers note that granting children the option to decide their future roles is consistent with the couple’s previously expressed desire to give Archie and Lilibet a more private and autonomous upbringing.
Verified Source: The Guardian – Royal Children’s Future
ITV News – Prince Harry Updates
A Focus on Private Family Life
Since relocating to the United States, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have intentionally shielded their children from the public eye. Public appearances, interviews, and published photos involving Archie and Lilibet are rare and controlled, in line with their efforts to limit media exposure and safeguard their children’s privacy.
Their parenting choices reflect broader concerns around digital safety, press intrusion, and mental health—areas where the couple has been vocal advocates through their nonprofit and personal platforms.
Verified Source: Archewell Foundation – Mission and Projects
Conclusion: Facts, Not Speculation, Define the Sussexes’ Royal Relationship
As of June 2025:
- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not announced a return to royal duties.
- Archie and Lilibet hold titles as Prince and Princess, a status confirmed under royal precedent since King Charles III’s accession.
- There is no confirmed use of HRH styling in public or official documents relating to the children.
- Buckingham Palace has not issued any recent statements suggesting a change in the couple’s status as non-working royals.
- The family continues to focus on their charitable foundation, mental health advocacy, and raising their children outside of the royal spotlight.
As the royal family continues to evolve, readers are encouraged to seek updates from trusted sources, such as:
- Royal.uk
- BBC News – Royal Coverage
- Reuters – Royal Affairs
- People – Royal Family News
