Prince William’s vision for a streamlined British monarchy reportedly leaves Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s American-raised children without royal roles or responsibilities. Royal experts say Archie and Lilibet, born and raised in California, will not be part of the future royal working family once William becomes king.
According to insiders, William is fully focused on preparing his own children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—for official duties. The future king is said to have emotionally moved on from his brother’s departure, viewing Harry’s household as separate from the monarchy. Royal observers believe this decision reflects William’s goal to maintain a smaller, more efficient royal family centered on loyalty, service, and British tradition.
Kinsey Schofield, royal expert and commentator, called the idea of Archie and Lilibet joining the royal working family “ludicrous,” pointing out their distance from royal life and lack of connection to the monarchy’s culture. She noted that they’ve had minimal contact with senior royals and have no experience with public royal responsibilities.
Sources say William may go further by formally removing the children’s “His/Her Royal Highness” (HRH) titles through new letters patent once he becomes king. While King Charles allowed the titles to be adopted after Queen Elizabeth’s passing, there is no legal obligation to maintain them. Experts view such a move as consistent with a broader effort to modernize the monarchy and reduce public expense.
This plan also sidelines Prince Andrew and his descendants, further underscoring the monarchy’s effort to refocus on a trusted inner circle. Harry’s strained relationship with the royal family—highlighted by his memoir and ongoing public criticism—has only deepened the division.
There is no indication of reconciliation. Under Prince William, the working monarchy is expected to include only a select few, with Archie and Lilibet permanently excluded.
