In a move that might leave royal family traditionalists clutching their pearls, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have decided it’s time to shake things up in the Sussex household by changing their children’s names. Yes, you read that right. Archie Mountbatten-Windsor and Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor are undergoing a rebrand to simply Archie and Lilibet Sussex. Because, let’s face it, nothing says “we’re carving our own path” quite like ditching a mouthful of a surname for something that fits better on a monogrammed backpack.
This royal rebranding exercise comes amidst the backdrop of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis, adding a layer of family complexity to the mix. However, the decision to streamline the kids’ names isn’t directly linked to the King’s health issues but rather seems part of Harry and Meghan’s ongoing mission to redefine their identities outside the conventional royal framework.
Harry, once known as Captain Wales in his military days, is no stranger to a name change, so it seems he’s passing on the tradition. The switch to ‘Sussex’ from ‘Mountbatten-Windsor’ – a surname that’s been hanging around since Queen Elizabeth II decided her descendants needed a double-barrel back in 1960 – is a bold move. It’s like they’re saying, “Remember us? We’re the ones doing things differently.”
Their website got a facelift too, moving from Archewell.com to Sussex.com because consistency is key in any good rebranding effort. The site now proudly features a snapshot of the couple at the Invictus Games, their royal coat of arms, and their new titles, sans the word “royal.” It seems they’re keen on keeping the Sussex brand, but the royal ties? Not so much.
Despite the side-eyes from some quarters over their use of ‘Sussex’ – and the notable absence of ‘royal’ – this whole rebranding saga seems to be Meghan and Harry’s way of setting up a unified front. It’s a bit like when celebrities launch a lifestyle brand but with more charity work and less goop.
And just when you thought Meghan might take a breather, she’s announced a new podcast deal with Lemonada Media. Because what’s a rebrand without fresh content? So, as the Sussex family continues to navigate their unique royal narrative, one thing’s for sure: they’re keeping us all on our toes, wondering what they’ll do next. Royal protocol might be enduring, but the Sussexes? They’re making their own rules.
