King Charles and Prince William are reportedly engaged in extensive discussions about the potential removal of the royal titles held by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
They are cautious, however, about the possible public backlash that might ensue. Recently, Harry and Meghan were delighted to see chairs labeled with their titles during a public appearance in Nigeria, despite the visit not being officially connected to England. Losing their titles would be a significant setback for the couple, who were granted the titles of Royal Highness after their wedding in 2018. They relinquished these titles in 2020 when they relocated to the United States.
Since their move, Harry and Meghan have secured lucrative deals, amassing over $100 million in earnings. Despite this, there are now reports that King Charles and Prince William are contemplating stripping them of their Sussex titles, though they are wary of the potential repercussions. Royal expert Tom Quinn suggests that even without their titles, Harry and Meghan will continue to be welcomed around the world and maintain their celebrity status. Stripping their titles could backfire, making Charles and William appear petty.
Furthermore, efforts have been made to gradually remove Prince Harry from the Royal Family's website, reportedly at the behest of King Charles, who is frustrated with his son's rebellious behavior. Prince Harry's critical statement about the British media's treatment of Meghan, issued before their wedding, has also disappeared from the internet, much to the annoyance of his father and brother. The statement criticized the media for not defending Meghan adequately, reflecting poorly on the Royal Family.
Quinn also claims that King Charles has sent a clear message to Harry that he will not be welcomed back to Frogmore Cottage. The monarch is reportedly encouraging his brother, Prince Andrew, to vacate the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor and move into Frogmore Cottage. Last year, plans were made for Andrew to relocate to Frogmore following the eviction of Harry and Meghan. Despite initial resistance from Andrew, King Charles has not given up the fight.
Tom Quinn argues that moving Andrew to Frogmore would serve multiple purposes. It would send a message to Harry that, as a private citizen and no longer a working royal, he will not be allowed back to Frogmore. It would also signal to Andrew that, having disgraced himself, he can no longer expect to live in grand style. Additionally, it would make Royal Lodge available for royals who are considered more significant, such as William and Kate. Charles believes that Royal Lodge is the only residence on the royal estate at Windsor that is grand enough for his heir.
Following reports that King Charles has once again asked Andrew to vacate Royal Lodge, a royal source told The Times that the King's kindness is not without limits. There is a viable option for Andrew to move into Frogmore Cottage, which was recently vacated by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. This move would also benefit from being within the Windsor Castle security cordon, reducing the need for alternative security arrangements for Royal Lodge. The source added that Andrew is taking longer than desirable to recognize the reality of the situation. An individual close to the Duke of York suggested that he might resist further pressure, noting that he has already had a stay of execution due to Sarah Ferguson and the King's recent health issues.
