Royal update follows Duchess’s podcast appearance and increased use of
Sussex branding
Just hours after Meghan Markle’s latest podcast interview stirred headlines,
Buckingham Palace released an official update that many see as a veiled
response to the growing controversy surrounding her royal titles.
Meghan, who has been barred from using her ‘HRH’ designation since stepping
back from royal duties in 2020, reignited tensions by prominently using her
Duchess of Sussex title to promote her new lifestyle brand, As Ever. The move
has raised eyebrows within royal circles and sparked fresh debate over her
continued use of royal styling.
In what appeared to be a carefully timed contrast, the Palace on Monday
celebrated a loyal working royal: the Duke of Kent.
“A wonderful day honouring young awardees of The King’s Scout Award — the
highest recognition in Scouting adventure and skill development,” the Palace
posted, alongside images of the Duke at Windsor Castle. The event marked 50
years of the Duke’s service with the Scouts, and notably referred to him using
his full His Royal Highness styling.
The post has been interpreted by royal commentators as a quiet but pointed
reminder of where royal favour currently lies — with figures who have remained
steadfast in their roles.
Royal insiders have long noted that King Charles and Prince William place high
value on loyalty. Since the release of Harry’s memoir Spare, relations between
the Sussexes and the rest of the Royal Family have remained strained. Despite
attempts at reconciliation, the Palace’s latest move suggests the divide is
far from healed.
With Meghan’s public use of her title becoming more assertive, the royal
response — or lack thereof — may signal that the Firm no longer considers the
Sussexes part of the inner royal circle.
