Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have quietly changed the names of both their children — a move that’s sparked mixed reactions from royal watchers.
Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor and Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor were the original names of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s two children. But now, the pair are said to be known simply as Archie Sussex and Lilibet Sussex.
A Modern Twist on Royal Tradition
Archie, born on May 6, 2019, at the Portland Hospital in London, weighed 7lb 3oz and was seventh in line to the throne at the time of his birth. He even met his great-grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, just two days later in a rare public appearance.
Two years later, on June 4, 2021, the couple welcomed their daughter Lilibet — affectionately called Lili — in California. Her name was a touching tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, whose family nickname was “Lilibet.”
Now, the Sussex children’s names have been streamlined as part of what insiders describe as a broader “family rebrand.”
A New Digital Era for the Sussexes
The change was first noticed after the couple launched their new website, Sussex.com, where Archie and Lilibet are referred to by their updated surnames. According to The Times, the rebrand coincides with King Charles III’s coronation — around the time the family began using the Sussex name more formally.
Sources close to the couple told the publication that Harry and Meghan wanted all their ventures and family representation to “sit under one umbrella.” One insider said, “It represents their unification and it’s a proud moment.”
Divided Reactions
The decision has divided public opinion. Some critics argue that the move contradicts the couple’s desire for privacy.
“For someone who wanted to get away from the royal family, he seems to want a foot in both camps,” one person commented online. Another added, “They said they wanted out of the media, yet they’re always in it.”
Others, however, have defended the couple’s choice. One supporter wrote, “Good for them! Get out from under Britain’s oppression of the royals and thrive. Wishing them all the best!”
Another added, “What’s in a name or title if it only brings misery? They chose peace for their family, and that’s their right.”
A Fresh Start
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan have settled in Montecito, California, where they’re raising Archie and Lilibet away from the spotlight.
For the Sussexes, this latest name change may not just be a branding choice — it’s another step in defining their independence while maintaining a sense of unity as a family.