Originally, their children were named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor and Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor.
However, the names have now been changed for a rather contentious reason…
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are certainly among the most talked-about members of the royal family.
In 2020, the duke and duchess made the decision to step back from their roles as senior royals, breaking significant traditions. They now primarily reside in California with their two kids.
Their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, was born on May 6, 2019.
He was delivered at the Portland Hospital in London, weighing 7 pounds 3 ounces, and is currently seventh in line for the throne.
Archie started his life in a more traditional royal manner, meeting his great-grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, just two days after his birth during a significant public event.
Now, he lives in Montecito, California, where he leads a relatively normal life.
On June 4, 2021, Archie became a big brother.
Lilibet, affectionately known as Lili by her close ones, was born in the U.S. and has remained out of the public spotlight since her arrival.
Her name was selected as a heartfelt family homage, as Lilibet was the childhood nickname of Elizabeth.
However, it has now been revealed that Archie and Lilibet’s names have been altered by their parents as part of the family’s significant rebranding – a move that has not pleased many.
One individual commented: “Instead of rebranding, I would like to see them actually accomplish something. It’s all spin and rather sad.”
Another person concurred: “For someone who wanted to distance himself from the royal family, he seems to want to straddle both worlds.”
“This couple will do anything to stay in the spotlight, complete hypocrites. For a duo that aimed to escape the media, they certainly excel at remaining in it,” remarked a third.
On the other hand, some are more supportive of the change.
One encouraging follower stated: “Good for them! Break free from Britain’s royal oppression and THRIVE! I wish them all the best!!”
Another added: “What’s in a name? What’s in a title if it only brings misery in your life? They chose to live their life away from all the toxicity. That is their right. Wishing Harry and his family all the happiness in the world!!! God bless.
According to The Times, Prince Harry and Markle’s kids have been using the names Archie and Lilibet Sussex instead of Mountbatten-Windsor since the coronation of King Charles III.
Recently, the couple updated their website to Sussex.com.
Sources inform the publication that the duke and duchess aim to consolidate all their projects – along with their children – under a single umbrella name to ‘unify’ the family.
A source shared with The Times: “It symbolizes their unity and it’s a moment of pride.”