In a surprising turn of events, newly crowned King Charles has publicly overlooked his youngest grandson’s birthday, igniting a wave of outrage from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
This marks the first time the royal family has seemingly ignored Prince Archie‘s special day, and the implications are significant, especially regarding the titles of Archie and his sister, Lilibet.
Prince Archie Harrison, who recently turned four, celebrated with a lemon cake baked by his mother.
However, reports suggest that this flavor choice might not have been the hit one would expect for a preschooler.
With the only coronet on his Octonauts lunchbox, it seems Archie’s birthday was less than regal, despite the royal lineage.
Adding fuel to the fire, Harry and Meghan confirmed that their children will officially be known as Prince Archie Harrison and Princess Lilibet Diana.
Yet, they are facing a significant blow: King Charles has reportedly decided that their children will not be allowed to use the HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles.
This decision has left the couple feeling deeply frustrated.
Royal commentator Neil Sean explained the situation, emphasizing that while Archie and Lilibet can be called prince and princess, the absence of the HRH title is a significant loss.
This title is crucial in royal protocol and typically signifies a higher status within the royal hierarchy.
The couple’s previous resignation from royal duties in 2020 has complicated their children’s standing.
When Harry and Meghan announced their departure from royal life, they were informed that they could no longer use the HRH titles, a rule that seems to extend to their children as well.
Sources close to the Sussexes have indicated that they are furious about the continuation of this ban, especially after months of discussions with the palace.
The couple has expressed concern over the security implications of their children not holding HRH titles.
Being recognized as a prince or princess traditionally provides certain levels of royal protection, which Harry and Meghan are understandably anxious about.
Their statement to The Sun reflects their ongoing frustration since Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, as they insist that Archie and Lilibet should be able to use the HRH titles.
Despite being styled as prince and princess, the lack of HRH means they do not enjoy the same privileges as other royals.
Traditionally, HRH titles are reserved for senior members of the royal family who actively participate in royal duties.
This has created a distinction that Harry and Meghan feel is unfairly applied to their children.
The history of HRH titles is rooted in royal tradition.
King George V established the entitlement in 1917 for the children and grandchildren of the reigning monarch.
In 2012, Queen Elizabeth II expanded this rule to include all children of the Prince of Wales’s eldest son, Prince William, but did not extend it to Charles’s younger children, leaving Harry in a peculiar position.
The significance of holding an HRH title cannot be overstated.
It not only provides access to a salary as a working royal but also ensures official protection and security.
Furthermore, an HRH title commands a level of respect, with people expected to bow or curtsy in the presence of those bearing the title.
As this family drama unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Sussexes will navigate their children’s royal identities amidst these restrictions.
The tension between Harry, Meghan, and the royal family appears to be far from resolved, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet within the royal framework.
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