Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are once again the subject of widespread public discourse after a video showing them dancing in a hospital room resurfaced online. The clip, originally intended to capture a joyful moment during Meghan’s pregnancy with their second child, has sparked polarized responses across social media. Simultaneously, discussions have resurfaced regarding the use of royal titles by the couple, particularly in light of their 2020 agreement with Buckingham Palace.
This article provides a factual overview of the situation, examines the public response, and outlines the official agreements surrounding the Duke and Duchess’s use of titles.
The Video in Question: Meghan and Harry Dancing During Pregnancy
A video shared on Instagram shows Meghan Markle dancing in what appears to be a hospital setting, shortly before the birth of her daughter, Princess Lilibet, in 2021. In the clip, Meghan, visibly pregnant, is seen dancing briefly to the viral “Baby Momma Dance” song. Prince Harry joins her momentarily in what many interpreted as a light-hearted, personal moment.
According to lifestyle sources such as Today and Parents.com, dancing during labor is sometimes encouraged by healthcare professionals to help ease discomfort and prepare the body for childbirth. Movements like gentle swaying or rhythmic dancing are known to promote relaxation and flexibility in the pelvic region, which can benefit the labor process.
Source: Today Parents – Dancing During Labor
Public Response: Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
Following the video’s reposting on social media platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), the response from the public was divided. Some users praised the couple for embracing the emotional moment and sharing their happiness, particularly in an environment where childbirth is often framed with anxiety.
Others, however, voiced concern that the video clashed with expectations traditionally associated with members of the royal family. A number of users argued that, given their continued use of royal titles, public behavior that departs from longstanding norms may invite criticism.
Former political adviser and commentator Nile Gardiner tweeted that the couple’s titles should be reviewed, a statement that was widely reshared. However, Gardiner’s opinion is a personal one and has no bearing on formal royal protocol.
Source: The Telegraph UK
Title Usage: Understanding the Official Agreement
The discussion about the Duke and Duchess’s titles dates back to January 2020, when Prince Harry and Meghan announced their decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family. Following discussions with Queen Elizabeth II and other royal officials, it was agreed that the couple would retain their titles—Duke and Duchess of Sussex—but would refrain from actively using the “HRH” (His/Her Royal Highness) styling in any formal capacity.
This arrangement was outlined in the official statements from Buckingham Palace and Sussex Royal in early 2020, and it was confirmed that the couple would no longer represent the Queen in official engagements. However, they did not have their peerage revoked.
Sources:
- Buckingham Palace Statement, January 2020
- BBC News Coverage, January 2020
Meghan’s Gift Basket and the “HRH” Signature
Further conversation was prompted after a podcast episode referenced a gift basket sent by Meghan Markle, which reportedly included a handwritten card signed, “HRH The Duchess of Sussex.” Although unofficial sources circulated the card online, no verified image or statement from the Duchess confirmed the signature or its intent.
The BBC and The Guardian have previously reported that the couple agreed not to use the HRH styling in a commercial or public-facing capacity. If the card was a private gift with no promotional connection, it would not automatically constitute a breach of the agreement. However, because the incident remains unverified by official sources, it is not possible to confirm whether the title was used inappropriately or not.
Sources:
- BBC News
- The Guardian Royal Coverage
Royal Title Removal: What the Protocol Actually Says
While public opinion is important in shaping media narratives, it is crucial to clarify that royal titles such as Duke and Duchess are bestowed by the monarch and cannot be removed due to public sentiment or social media campaigns.
The authority to revoke or modify royal titles lies solely with the Sovereign—currently King Charles III. Historically, titles have only been revoked in extraordinary circumstances, such as in the case of King Edward VIII, who abdicated in 1936. Even then, the changes were enacted through formal processes.
As of June 2025, no official statement or royal decree has suggested any change in the status of Prince Harry and Meghan’s titles.
Source:
- UK Parliament – Royal Titles and Peerages
- Constitution Unit, UCL
Perspectives from Royal Commentators and Supporters
Prominent royal commentator Angela Levin voiced disapproval of the hospital video, describing it as inconsistent with the dignity typically associated with royal figures. However, her remarks reflect personal opinion and not any official assessment.
Conversely, many healthcare professionals and parenting advocates have noted that dancing during labor is a personal choice and not inappropriate in itself. Videos of expectant mothers engaging in light movement have been celebrated on platforms like TikTok and Instagram for promoting body positivity and reducing fear around childbirth.
Supporters of the couple argue that they are entitled to moments of joy, especially in private or semi-private settings. Many point out that Meghan and Harry’s decision to share personal moments is part of their broader effort to reshape public narratives around parenthood, mental health, and personal freedom.
Sources:
- Parents.com – Dancing in Labor
- British Medical Journal – Labor and Movement
Conclusion: Balancing Personal Freedom and Public Expectation
The resurfacing of Meghan and Harry’s hospital dance video and the discussions around royal titles highlight the tension between personal freedom and public responsibility, especially for former members of the royal family. While the couple retains their titles by royal authority, their behavior—both celebrated and criticized—continues to be intensely scrutinized.
At the heart of this conversation is a broader cultural shift: what does it mean to uphold tradition in a digital era that celebrates authenticity and personal expression?
As of now, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to pursue charitable, media, and personal projects under the framework established with Buckingham Palace. There is no official indication that their titles are under formal review.
Cited and Verified Sources:
- Buckingham Palace Official Statement (2020): royal.uk
- BBC News Royal Coverage: bbc.com
- UCL Constitution Unit – Royal Titles: ucl.ac.uk
- Parents.com: parents.com
- Today Show: today.com
- British Medical Journal: bmj.com
