In a surprising turn of events, CBS News anchor Jane Pauly publicly stripped Prince Harry of his royal title during a live interview, leaving the Duke of Sussex visibly shaken.
This dramatic confrontation has reignited the longstanding feud between the Sussexes and the royal family. Throughout the interview, Pauly repeatedly addressed Harry simply as "Harry," omitting the customary "Prince Harry." This choice was a deliberate snub, signaling that she, and by extension the American public, no longer acknowledges Harry as a prince.
When questioned about this decision, Pauly was direct, stating plainly, "You are no longer a Prince. Harry is only a prince due to an accident of birth. He didn't do anything to earn that title; he was simply born into it. He is living in the U.S., and we don't use or accept titles here. It was a choice that he and Meghan made together." Pauly emphasized that the United States won its freedom from the UK and implied that Harry should adapt to American norms. She added, "In the U.S., you are Harry, just Harry. If you wish to be known as Prince Harry, then you need to return to the UK. You have been told by a judge and several interviewers that in this country, you are Harry, just Harry."
During the interview, Harry tried to defend his title, arguing that he remained a prince despite stepping down from royal duties. However, Pauly was firm, asserting that the couple's decision to forego their royal roles meant they had also relinquished their titles and privileges. She stated, "It is absolutely true that Harry and Meghan Markle chose to leave the United Kingdom on their own free will. They are no longer HRH, and they are no longer working royals. Since Harry became a United States resident, he became just a plain commoner by the name of Harry, and he shall go by Harry as we choose to call him here in the United States."
Pauly continued, "He doesn't like it? That's just too bad. He is not even a Duke for that matter. He does not carry himself as a Duke, nor as a prince. He has destroyed, along with Meghan Markle, the prestigious titles of Duke and Duchess and the title of Prince. It has been 100% destroyed by Harry and Meghan Markle."
Pauly defended her stance, suggesting that calling him "Harry" was better than what Meghan Markle called him, alluding to internal conflicts and Meghan's alleged comments. The exchange grew increasingly tense and uncomfortable, with Harry showing clear agitation as the interview continued. The incident has sparked intense debate regarding the couple's status and their ongoing relationship with the royal family. Some have praised Pauly for her straightforward approach and holding Harry accountable, while others have criticized her for being unnecessarily harsh. The royal family has yet to comment, but it is evident that this event has further strained relations between the two parties.
The key question now is what this means for Harry and Meghan. Without their royal titles, their ability to leverage their royal connections is significantly reduced. Their brand, which has heavily relied on their royal status, is now at risk. Moreover, the incident has exposed the couple's dependence on their royal heritage for their public image. As the fallout from this explosive interview continues, Harry and Meghan face a critical crossroads. They must decide whether to fully embrace their new roles as private citizens or continue clinging to the remnants of their former lives. The choices they make in the coming months will undoubtedly influence their future.
