Archie and Lilibet: Growing Up Royal in a Private World
When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from their royal duties and relocated to sunny California, they envisioned a quieter, more private life for their family. Central to this decision was the desire to shield their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, from the public eye. Yet, their unique status as royal children raised in the United States has continued to spark global fascination and debate.
Balancing Privacy and Royal Titles
From the outset, Harry and Meghan were clear about protecting Archie and Lilibet’s privacy. Rare glimpses of the young prince and princess have surfaced only occasionally, such as in their Netflix documentary released in December 2022. Despite their efforts to limit public exposure, the decision to grant their children royal titles left many puzzled.
Initially, the couple viewed royal titles as burdens for their children, but they later changed course. Their reasoning? To give Archie and Lilibet the freedom to decide whether to keep or relinquish their titles when they’re older. However, critics, like royal expert Angela Levin, argue that this decision ties the children to an institution their parents have publicly criticized. Levin remarked, “It will take a long time for little Lilibet to realize the extent of the burden her parents have placed on her young shoulders.”
Growing Up Without Extended Family
Archie and Lilibet’s relationships with both sides of their family are notably limited. On their father’s side, they’ve had little contact with the British royal family. On their mother’s side, they’ve never met their grandfather, Thomas Markle, whose relationship with Meghan remains estranged.
This separation raises questions about how the children will perceive their heritage as they grow older. Thomas Markle speculated, “I find myself wondering how Archie and Lilibet will feel in a few years’ time when they realise all the things they have missed out on.”
Security Concerns and Life in America
One significant factor in the Sussexes’ decision to remain in California is safety. After stepping down from royal duties, Harry and Meghan lost access to royal protection. Harry’s attempt to personally fund police protection in the UK was denied, citing his “inherited security risk.” This has made returning to Britain with their children a challenge.
Royal expert Hugo Vickers noted that Meghan seems particularly committed to raising Archie and Lilibet as Americans. “I think the problem for the children… is that they’re probably having a very nice time being brought up in California. But there’s going to come a point when they realise they are cousins to the British Royal Family,” he said.
The Future of Archie and Lilibet
As the children of two highly visible public figures, Archie and Lilibet occupy a unique position. They are part of the British royal lineage but live far removed from its traditions and expectations. According to royal commentator Charles Rae, Meghan is unlikely to return to Britain, and by extension, neither will her children—at least not in the near future.
The Sussexes’ journey as parents balancing privacy, heritage, and their own personal values continues to captivate observers. Whether Archie and Lilibet will embrace their royal connections or chart their own paths remains a question only time can answer.
For now, the Sussex family appears content in their California home, building a life that blends royal legacy with modern independence.