In a twist of royal fate, the future of Prince Harry‘s children, Archie and Lilibet, could still shine brightly even if their father decides to relinquish his titles.
Since King Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022, both Archie Harrison and Princess Lilibet Diana have been eligible to claim their regal titles.
Interestingly, a family lawyer based in the U.S. has weighed in on this matter, suggesting that the kids might hold onto their titles regardless of Harry’s choices.
Last week, Prince Harry stirred up conversation by revealing that he, like many in his family, had contemplated applying for U.S. citizenship.
This revelation raises questions about the implications for his royal status.
Meghan Markle, who married Harry in 2018, retained her U.S. passport, and their children automatically received American citizenship at birth.
Yet, attorney Alphonse Provenziano clarified that Archie and Lilibet wouldn’t have to surrender their titles if Harry pursued U.S. citizenship.
Provenziano emphasized that if Harry becomes a U.S. citizen, it would symbolize a significant and permanent separation from the British royal family.
However, he pointed out that this scenario is unlikely due to its high-profile nature.
The fascinating part is that Archie and Lilibet could continue to enjoy their titles under American law, as they inherited them at birth.
Natural-born American citizens can indeed acquire titles without needing to give them up, although such titles are generally honorary.
Provenziano provided an example from history: when Rudy Giuliani was honored after the September 11 attacks, he received an honorary knighthood from the Queen.
This illustrates how titles can exist alongside American citizenship.
The legal expert further speculated on a hypothetical situation where all three of Prince Harry’s relatives abdicate their thrones, and he renounces his titles to become a U.S. citizen.
In such a case, it seems highly improbable that Archie would ascend to the throne following his father.
Currently, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—children of Prince William—are positioned as the second, third, and fourth in line to the throne, respectively.
As it stands, Archie is sixth in line, directly behind Harry.
However, if Harry were to step back entirely, Provenziano pointed out that Archie could potentially become the first in line, should Prince William’s children decide not to pursue the throne.
This scenario would hinge on Archie retaining his titles.
Moreover, if we entertain the idea of Harry giving up his British citizenship and titles, Archie could emerge as a dual citizen of both the U.S. and the U.K., a remarkable distinction for a future monarch.
This could pave the way for Archie to become the first dual citizen to hold the throne in England.
Related Stories
