Since officially stepping back from royal duties in early 2020, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, have charted a new course focused on privacy, philanthropy, and parenthood. At the heart of their journey is their eldest child, Prince Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, born on May 6, 2019, in London.
Archie made history from the moment of his birth—not only as the first child of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle but also as the first mixed-race child born into the modern British royal family. His birth represented both continuity and change within one of the world’s oldest institutions.
Archie’s Early Years: A Royal Beginning
Archie was born at Portland Hospital in London and introduced to the world two days later at Windsor Castle, where his parents shared a joyful moment with royal watchers and media outlets.
His full name, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, reflects a blend of royal tradition and modernity. While his parents chose not to use a courtesy title at birth, Archie is seventh in the line of succession to the British throne and holds dual citizenship in the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to Royal.uk, Archie became entitled to use the title “Prince” following the accession of King Charles III, under the terms set by Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917.
Archie in the United States
In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex relocated to Montecito, California, seeking a more private and grounded life for their family. In interviews with Oprah Winfrey, The Cut, and People Magazine, the couple shared that their focus is on raising their children in a loving and supportive environment—free from the scrutiny and expectations that often accompany royal life in the UK.
“Parenting is a journey of constant learning,” Meghan shared during her podcast Archetypes. “It’s about creating a world where your children feel seen and safe.”
A Life Rooted in Purpose and Service
Despite moving away from royal duties, Meghan and Harry have remained committed to public service. Through the Archewell Foundation, they support initiatives in mental health, digital responsibility, gender equity, and community resilience.
Prince Harry continues to champion causes dear to him, especially through the Invictus Games Foundation, which supports wounded veterans through sports and rehabilitation. Meghan has also pursued creative and philanthropic endeavors, including partnerships with Spotify, Netflix, and book publications focused on compassion and storytelling.
Their collective mission: “To uplift and unite communities through acts of compassion,” as outlined on the Archewell Foundation’s official website.
Privacy and Protection for Archie and Lilibet
One of the couple’s most consistent messages has been the importance of protecting their children’s privacy. They have made limited public appearances with Archie and his younger sister, Princess Lilibet Diana, born in 2021, and avoid posting images of their children on social media.
During their 2021 sit-down with Oprah, Harry explained, “It’s about making sure that we don’t perpetuate the cycle. We want to break that and provide them with a chance to grow up as freely as possible.”
This approach has garnered both admiration and criticism, but it remains consistent with the couple’s emphasis on mental health, personal autonomy, and media ethics.
Public Interest and Rumors: Separating Fact from Fiction
As is often the case with high-profile figures, Meghan and Harry have been the subject of countless rumors. However, it is essential to emphasize that no official or credible source has ever questioned the paternity of Archie, nor have Prince William or any other royal family members ever been linked to such claims.
Speculative headlines circulating online regarding DNA results or paternity are entirely false and lack any factual basis. BBC News, Reuters, and The Guardian have confirmed that no such reports have been issued or investigated by the royal family or medical professionals.
It is critical for both publishers and readers to distinguish between trusted journalism and fabricated stories designed for viral traction. Such misinformation not only harms public understanding but also disrespects the individuals involved—especially when children are the subject.
Celebrating Family Milestones Privately
While they keep their private life largely out of the spotlight, Meghan and Harry have occasionally shared glimpses of their family’s milestones. In 2023, Archie was seen briefly in the Netflix documentary series “Harry & Meghan,” where the couple reflected on their decision to leave royal duties and focus on their well-being.
Archie recently celebrated his fifth birthday, and while no formal photos were released, close friends of the Sussexes, including Misan Harriman, have shared the family’s joy and commitment to meaningful moments.
Lilibet, who celebrated her second birthday in 2023, was introduced to Queen Elizabeth II shortly before the monarch’s passing—an event described as “deeply personal” and “filled with warmth,” according to People Magazine.
A Modern Approach to Royal Parenting
As Prince Archie grows, his parents remain focused on raising him with values of kindness, service, and self-awareness. Meghan has spoken about wanting her children to understand both their heritage and their ability to influence the world positively.
Conclusion: From Royal Birth to Grounded Childhood
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s journey from Buckingham Palace to California suburbia is a testament to their commitment to family, purpose, and integrity. While their lives remain a topic of global fascination, the values they instill in their children reflect a forward-looking vision of modern parenthood.
Archie’s upbringing may not include traditional royal pageantry, but it offers something equally powerful: a sense of identity rooted in compassion, security, and thoughtful intention.
Trusted Sources
- Royal.uk – The Royal Family
- BBC News – Royal Coverage
- People Magazine – Royals
- The Guardian – Royals
- Archewell Foundation
- Netflix: Harry & Meghan
- Variety Magazine – Meghan Markle Interview