In recent years, the roles of Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, have evolved significantly as they stepped back from their positions as senior working members of the British royal family. Since the transition in 2020, there has been widespread public interest in how this decision has affected their titles, status, and relationship with the monarchy.

Here’s a comprehensive and factual update on what is known about Meghan Markle’s title, what changes (if any) have occurred, and how the royal family continues to adapt to a new era.

The 2020 Transition: What Was Agreed Upon?

In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan announced their intention to step back from royal duties and become financially independent. Following discussions with Queen Elizabeth II and senior members of the royal family, a formal agreement—often referred to as the “Sandringham Summit”—outlined several key outcomes:

• Harry and Meghan retained their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles.
• They agreed to no longer use the style “His/Her Royal Highness (HRH)” in an official capacity.
• They would not receive public funds for royal duties.
• They would step away from official military appointments and Commonwealth roles.

These decisions were confirmed in an official statement published on Royal.uk.

Fact: Meghan Markle has not officially been “stripped” of her title. She remains the Duchess of Sussex, but does not use “Her Royal Highness” (HRH) in any public or working royal role, consistent with the terms of the 2020 agreement.

Understanding the “HRH” Style: What It Means

The style “His/Her Royal Highness” is traditionally used by senior members of the royal family who perform official royal duties. It is a mark of formal royal status but does not equate to nobility or peerage titles, which are governed by letters patent issued by the monarch.

In Meghan’s case:

• Her title remains: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.
• She and Prince Harry retain the HRH style in name, but do not actively use it as part of their public or charitable work.

According to the Royal Household’s guidance on styles and titles, this arrangement mirrors the decision made for Diana, Princess of Wales, following her divorce in 1996. She retained her princess title but no longer used “HRH.”

Has King Charles III Made New Changes?

As of the time of writing, there has been no official announcement from King Charles III or Buckingham Palace regarding any further revocation or modification of Meghan Markle’s title beyond what was established in 2020.

While media speculation persists about how the monarchy may evolve under King Charles’ reign, no verified statement or legal decree has been issued regarding the complete removal of Meghan’s titles or honors.

Any changes to royal titles or peerages would typically be announced publicly through The London Gazette or the official royal website.

The Monarchy’s Evolving Role

King Charles III has spoken publicly about his desire to maintain a “slimmed-down monarchy” focused on public service and constitutional duties. This does not automatically imply revocation of titles from non-working royals, but rather a focus on clarifying roles and expectations for those who represent the Crown.

Example: Prince Andrew also retains his Duke of York title but does not use HRH in an official capacity, following his own departure from public duties.

This trend toward modernization reflects a broader desire to align the monarchy with contemporary public expectations, while preserving key traditions.

Public Perception and Media Narratives

The subject of royal titles often generates headlines, but it is important to distinguish between speculative media commentary and confirmed royal protocol. While public interest in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remains high, official decisions regarding titles and roles are typically reserved, deliberate, and publicly documented.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, through their Archewell Foundation and media ventures, have continued to contribute to causes related to mental health, veteran support, gender equity, and youth empowerment. These activities are conducted independently of the Crown.

Meghan Markle’s Current Status in 2024

• Full title: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex
• Style: No longer using “Her Royal Highness (HRH)” as of 2020
• Role: Private citizen and public figure; no longer a working royal
• Recognition: Still listed on official royal records as the wife of Prince Harry

It is worth noting that title usage does not affect citizenship status or legal standing. Meghan Markle remains a U.S. citizen and is not considered a “foreigner” by the UK in any legal or constitutional sense.

Conclusion: Title Status Is Unchanged Since 2020

Despite sensational headlines, no recent official action has been taken by King Charles III to further alter or remove Meghan Markle’s title. The Duchess of Sussex continues to hold her title by marriage, although she and Prince Harry voluntarily stepped away from the use of “HRH” and no longer perform royal duties.

This status reflects a carefully negotiated agreement between the couple and the royal household that has remained in place since early 2020.

As the royal family adapts to a new era under King Charles’ leadership, any future changes to titles or responsibilities will likely be handled with the same formal care, transparency, and documentation that have characterized the institution’s centuries-long history.

Verified Sources:

• Royal.uk – Official Statement on the Sussexes
• BBC News – Royal Family and Titles
• Sky News – Royal News & Analysis
• The London Gazette – Official Public Record
• The Royal Household FAQs – Styles and Titles