Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 'swipe' at the late Queen
Critics argue that Los Angeles–based Meghan Markle is exploiting her royal connections to promote her lifestyle brand As Ever. The controversy reignited after she launched a candle inspired by her wedding to Prince Harry.
One of the ongoing points of tension following the couple’s departure from the Royal Family has been their continued use of the HRH titles and the word “royal.”
The discussion returned to public attention after King Charles issued an unprecedented statement removing his brother, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, of the title “prince.”
Many readers of the Daily Mail have since suggested that Harry and Meghan should also lose their titles, citing what they view as the couple’s poor treatment of the monarchy.
“Senior royals and Buckingham Palace officials have long speculated on the Sussexes’ intention to monetise the monarchy,”
said royal biographer Tom Bower, pointing to their refusal to stop using royal titles despite the terms of the Sandringham agreement.
Bower also claimed that the couple’s detailed message announcing their decision to step back from royal duties was written “out of spite” after the Palace ordered them to close their Sussex Royal brand in February 2020. This followed Prince Harry’s high-profile $1 million speaking engagement at a JP Morgan event in Miami, Florida.
Author’s Summary
Critics accuse Prince Harry and Meghan of exploiting their royal status for personal gain while facing renewed calls to be stripped of their remaining titles.