In a recent turn of events, the possibility of Prince Archie Harrison and Princess Lilibet Diana retaining their royal titles even if Prince Harry decides to step down has come to light.
As the grandchildren of King Charles, who ascended the throne in September 2022, the young royals were bestowed with the privilege to utilize their royal titles.
This revelation has sparked intriguing discussions within the royal circle and beyond.
Speculation surrounding the fate of Prince Harry’s titles arose following his contemplation of becoming a US citizen, a move that would align him with the rest of his family.
While Meghan Markle retained her American citizenship post their marriage in 2018, their offspring automatically qualify for American citizenship at birth.
Despite the necessity for Harry to relinquish his titles if he pursues US citizenship, legal expert Alphonse Provinziano suggests that this may not extend to Archie and Lilibet.
Provinziano emphasized the unlikelihood of Prince Harry severing ties with the British Royal Family by becoming a US citizen, given the public scrutiny such an action would attract.
Notably, under US law, Archie and Lilibet are entitled to retain their surnames without compromising their citizenship status, a privilege granted to natural-born US citizens.
Drawing a parallel, Provinziano highlighted how individuals like Rudolph Giuliani received honorary titles without forfeiting their rights.
Moreover, the potential scenario of Harry renouncing his titles to pursue US citizenship raises the improbable prospect of his son assuming the throne if his cousins abdicate their positions.
Currently, Prince William’s children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – rank ahead of Archie in the line of succession.
However, Provinziano posited that Archie, by preserving his titles irrespective of his father’s choices, emerges as a viable contender to succeed his uncle in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Looking ahead, Provinziano envisioned a future where Prince William’s heirs might opt out of ascending the throne, paving the way for a different lineage.
With Prince Harry no longer part of the line of succession due to his renunciation of British citizenship and titles, the focus shifts to the potential trajectory for Archie and Lilibet.
Their inherent right to their titles, rooted in their birthright as American citizens, underscores the intricate interplay between heritage and personal choices in the realm of royalty.