Grammy-winning musician David Byrne has spoken out against Meghan Markle, accusing her of disrespecting the residents of Dumbarton by rejecting the title of Earl and Countess for her son.
The title of Earl of Dumbarton is traditionally held by Prince Harry, making their child eligible to inherit it.
However, the couple declined this specific royal title to shield their son from potential teasing in the future.
According to a report by The Telegraph, Archie, as a member of the royal line of succession, had the opportunity to be named Earl of Dumbarton.
When Harry and Meghan tied the knot, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon them the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Earl and Countess of Dumbarton, and Baron and Baroness Kilkeel.
Despite this, the couple opted out of using the Dumbarton title due to concerns about potential bullying.
Sources close to the couple revealed that the term “dumb” in Earl of Dumbarton could be misconstrued negatively, especially in the United States, where the couple now resides.
This decision was not solely driven by Meghan’s worries but also resonated with Harry, leading them to refer to their son simply as Master Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s rejection of the Earl of Dumbarton title stirred controversy in Scotland, where the name holds significance.
David Byrne, a celebrated musician hailing from Dumbarton, expressed disappointment in the couple’s actions, describing them as thoughtless and disrespectful towards the town’s residents.
He called for the removal of the family’s title, emphasizing that the people of Dumbarton deserve better treatment.
Born on May 14, 1952, David Byrne is a Scottish-American artist renowned for his contributions to music, film, and various other creative endeavors.
As a founding member and lead singer of the iconic band Talking Heads, Byrne has garnered prestigious accolades such as Grammy Awards, Academy Awards, and Golden Globes.
His multifaceted talents extend to writing, producing, acting, and visual arts, solidifying his status as a cultural luminary.
In response to the controversy, social media users rallied in support of Dumbarton, with many asserting their pride in the town’s heritage and resilience.
Twitter users defended the community’s identity, expressing indifference towards aristocratic titles and emphasizing the town’s unique character.
Outsiders also chimed in, applauding Dumbarton’s independence and heritage in the face of external scrutiny.
Situated near Glasgow along the River Clyde, Dumbarton boasts a rich history dating back to the 5th century when it served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde.
The town achieved royal borough status in 1222 and has since been a focal point of Scottish history and culture.
Dumbarton Castle, a prominent landmark, has played pivotal roles in military defense and royal affairs, including sheltering Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th century.
Throughout the 19th century, Dumbarton flourished as a center of trade, encompassing industries like shipbuilding, glassmaking, and whisky production.
Its legacy as a hub of innovation and craftsmanship endures, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of its inhabitants.
Despite external controversies, Dumbarton remains a testament to Scotland’s enduring spirit and cultural heritage, embodying a legacy of strength and tradition.