Meghan Markle’s Last Name: Why She Said It’s ‘Sussex’ Now – Business Insider
Meghan Markle, now officially known as Meghan Sussex, has opened up about her decision to adopt the Sussex surname, sharing how meaningful it is for her family. This change has sparked curiosity about what it means for her, Prince Harry, and their children, Archie and Lilibet. Here’s everything you need to know about Meghan Markle’s name change and its significance.
Why is Meghan Markle Now Meghan Sussex?
When Meghan married Prince Harry in 2018, Queen Elizabeth II granted them the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex. While Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex, she was still widely referred to by her maiden name, Markle. However, in a recent episode of her Netflix series With Love, Meghan, she clarified that she now goes by Meghan Sussex.
“You know I’m Sussex now,” Meghan told guest Mindy Kaling. “I share my name with my children. It just means so much to say, ‘This is our family name. Our little family name.’”
This shift reflects her desire to align her identity with her husband and children, emphasizing the importance of family unity.
What Does This Mean for Prince Harry and Their Kids?
Prince Harry and Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, were born with the surname Mountbatten-Windsor. This hyphenated name combines Prince Philip’s adopted surname, Mountbatten, and the royal House of Windsor. However, Meghan’s adoption of the Sussex surname raises questions about whether their children will also adopt the name.
While Archie and Lilibet’s official names remain Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor and Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, Meghan has expressed her love for the shared family identity that the Sussex name represents.
Why Weren’t Archie and Lili Named Sussex from Birth?
When Archie and Lilibet were born in 2019 and 2021, respectively, they were not automatically given royal titles. Unlike their cousins—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—Archie and Lilibet’s parents chose not to give them titles at birth. Instead, they were given the surname Mountbatten-Windsor, a common practice for royal family members without titles.
Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 further complicated the naming process. While they retained their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles, they were barred from using them for commercial purposes.
The Significance of the Sussex Name for Meghan
For Meghan, the Sussex name represents more than just a title—it symbolizes her family’s identity. “It’s our shared name as a family,” she told People. “I hadn’t recognized how meaningful that would be to me until we had children. I love that Archie, Lili, Harry, and I all have that together.”
This sentiment highlights her commitment to creating a strong family bond, especially as they navigate life outside the royal spotlight.
Key Takeaways About Meghan Markle’s Name Change
- Meghan Markle is now Meghan Sussex, aligning her name with her husband and children.
- Archie and Lilibet’s official names remain Mountbatten-Windsor, but the Sussex surname holds personal significance for the family.
- The Sussex name symbolizes family unity for Meghan, Harry, Archie, and Lilibet.
What’s Next for the Sussex Family?
As Meghan and Harry continue to build their lives in the U.S., the Sussex name will likely play a central role in their brand and identity. While they face ongoing criticism from some royal commentators, their focus remains on their #MeghanMarkle
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