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12 Mar 2025, Wed

Meghan Markle adopts new name and reveals desire to unite family with Sussex in 2025

Meghan Markle


Meghan Markle, wife of Prince Harry, surprised many by announcing she now wishes to be called Meghan Sussex. The revelation came during the recording of her new show alongside actress Mindy Kaling, reflecting a personal decision tied to the couple’s children, Archie and Lilibet. The duchess, who has lived in the United States since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, emphasized the importance of sharing a surname with her kids, strengthening family bonds amid a period of change and fresh ventures.

The statement emerged in a lighthearted moment when Mindy teased Meghan about her love for fast food. The duchess responded with a smile but a meaningful tone: “You know I’m ‘Sussex’ now. You have kids and think, no, I want to share my name with my children.” In an interview with People magazine, she elaborated, noting that the Sussex surname symbolizes the family’s unity, a significance that deepened after motherhood. This announcement marks another step in crafting a distinct identity for the couple, separate from the British monarchy.

Since leaving the royal fold, Meghan and Harry have faced challenges and speculation about their life in the U.S. The decision to embrace Sussex comes amid rumors about their marriage and legal issues tied to Harry’s visa, alongside Meghan’s new endeavors, such as her lifestyle brand and a return to Instagram. The choice also reignites discussions about the use of royal titles, as “Sussex” harks back to the dukedom granted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018.

A shift rooted in family ties

Meghan’s decision to adopt Sussex as her public name goes beyond personal preference—it mirrors her journey as a mother and spouse. Speaking to People, she explained that sharing the surname with Harry and their children—Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3—brought an unexpected sense of belonging. “I love that it’s something Archie, Lili, H, and I have together,” she said, affectionately referring to her husband. This move could be seen as an effort to solidify the Sussex family identity in the United States, where they’ve resided since leaving the UK.

The couple, now settled in Montecito, California, after stepping away from royal life, has pursued financial and personal independence. Meghan, once known for her role in “Suits” before marrying Harry, has returned to her career, focusing on media and lifestyle projects. Her show with Mindy Kaling is part of this new chapter, as is her American Riviera Orchard brand, which has faced delays due to trademark issues. Embracing Sussex aligns with this reinvention, bridging her past as an actress with her present as a public figure.

For Harry, the change carries symbolic weight too. Fifth in line to the British throne, he retains the title of Duke of Sussex, but emphasizing the shared surname underscores their distance from the monarchy. Friends have noted that the prince struggles with bouts of boredom and frustration in the U.S., balancing family life with a longing to reconnect with the UK. Meghan’s choice might serve as a way to anchor their family in a cohesive identity during this transition.

Context of tensions and new ventures

As Meghan focuses on her new identity, the British royal family continues to grapple with the fallout from the couple’s departure. Ties with King Charles III and Prince William remain strained since 2020, worsened by Harry’s memoir “Spare” and their 2022 Netflix series. Recently, speculation about Charles III’s funeral has intensified, with reports suggesting Queen Camilla opposes Meghan’s attendance due to lingering friction. Adopting Sussex in this climate could be interpreted as a declaration of independence amid these ongoing disputes.

In the U.S., Harry faces a separate hurdle: a legal battle over his visa. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative group, is pushing for the release of his immigration records, questioning whether he disclosed drug use mentioned in “Spare.” Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory has fueled deportation rumors, with analysts suggesting the prince lost political cover from the prior administration. While the case remains unresolved, this uncertainty adds complexity to their American life.

Meanwhile, Meghan presses forward with her projects. Her Instagram return in January 2025, after nearly seven years away, garnered over 400,000 followers in hours. Now under the handle @meghan, the account reflects her current phase, showcasing life in Montecito and hints of American Riviera Orchard. The series with Mindy Kaling, yet to confirm a release date, promises to delve into lifestyle, cooking, and wellness—areas Meghan aims to master as a “guru” in the field.

The weight of Sussex in royalty and beyond

Adopting Sussex as a public surname is no small matter for Meghan. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles were bestowed by Buckingham Palace in May 2018, on their wedding day. Since then, they’ve leveraged the dukedom in efforts like Sussex Royal, a brand they dropped post-“Megxit” at the monarchy’s behest. Meghan’s choice revisits debates over the commercial use of titles, which previously irked royal family members. Yet in the U.S., where noble titles hold no legal sway, the shift feels more personal than provocative.

Reactions in the UK vary. Some view it as a final break from the monarchy, while others see it as a marketing play for Meghan’s ventures. The duchess has faced scrutiny for public appearances blending glamour and simplicity—like wearing a Max Mara coat in summer or a relaxation patch at an event. Highlighting Sussex might unify her image, tying her family life to the public persona she’s shaping.

For their children, the shift has implications too. Archie and Lilibet, born with the Mountbatten-Windsor surname, are now more linked to Sussex in their parents’ narrative. A rare photo of the kids in a December 2024 Christmas card reinforced this united family image. Protecting their privacy remains key, with Harry voicing concerns about bringing them to the UK over security fears.

Timeline of Meghan and Harry’s U.S. journey

Since leaving the UK, Meghan and Harry have navigated defining moments that shape their current path. Here’s a look at key events:

  • January 2020: The couple announces their exit from royal duties, seeking financial independence.
  • June 2020: They settle in Montecito, California, after a stint in Canada.
  • March 2021: An Oprah Winfrey interview exposes royal tensions, including racism allegations.
  • January 2023: Harry’s “Spare” memoir details family rifts.
  • December 2024: A Christmas card features a rare photo of Archie and Lilibet.
  • January 2025: Meghan rejoins Instagram, quickly gaining 400,000 followers.
  • March 2025: Meghan announces Sussex as her new public name during filming with Mindy Kaling.

This timeline highlights their steady evolution toward a distinct identity, now cemented with the Sussex name.

Impacts and speculation on the decision

Meghan’s shift to Sussex is already rippling through media circles. In the U.S., where she’s a prominent influencer, the name could bolster her personal brand. American Riviera Orchard, slated for a 2025 launch, may benefit from the surname’s air of sophistication and exclusivity. Branding experts note this aligns Meghan with figures like Martha Stewart, who turned lifestyle into commercial empires.

In the UK, the effect is more divisive. King Charles III, battling cancer since 2024, is reportedly “fed up” with his son and daughter-in-law’s actions. Queen Camilla has signaled she’d bar Meghan from future events like the king’s funeral. Choosing Sussex might subtly challenge this stance, reaffirming their claim to the title. Harry, who lost a legal bid for UK security, also faces government pushback, dimming prospects of a full return.

Fans have embraced the change, with social media praising the family unity it represents. The Mindy Kaling filming, though not widely previewed, has sparked curiosity about how Meghan will present her new identity on-screen.

What lies ahead for Meghan Sussex

Looking forward, adopting Sussex signals a consolidation phase for Meghan. She plans to launch American Riviera Orchard in 2025, offering products from jams to decor, per early filings. The Mindy Kaling series, centered on cooking and wellness, will complement this, positioning her as a lifestyle authority. Harry, meanwhile, is producing “Polo,” a Netflix series exploring the sport’s behind-the-scenes.

Montecito remains their hub. Their $14 million-plus mansion recently hosted friends during Los Angeles wildfires, showing community ties. Despite separation rumors, the Christmas card photo and Sussex focus suggest stability. The name change is another chapter in their reinvention.

Harry faces ongoing legal and personal hurdles. The U.S. visa dispute lingers, and his rift with William persists—evident at Lord Robert Fellowes’ 2024 funeral, where the brothers didn’t speak. Yet the Sussex identity gives the couple a foothold, blending royal roots with future ambitions.



Meghan Markle, wife of Prince Harry, surprised many by announcing she now wishes to be called Meghan Sussex. The revelation came during the recording of her new show alongside actress Mindy Kaling, reflecting a personal decision tied to the couple’s children, Archie and Lilibet. The duchess, who has lived in the United States since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, emphasized the importance of sharing a surname with her kids, strengthening family bonds amid a period of change and fresh ventures.

The statement emerged in a lighthearted moment when Mindy teased Meghan about her love for fast food. The duchess responded with a smile but a meaningful tone: “You know I’m ‘Sussex’ now. You have kids and think, no, I want to share my name with my children.” In an interview with People magazine, she elaborated, noting that the Sussex surname symbolizes the family’s unity, a significance that deepened after motherhood. This announcement marks another step in crafting a distinct identity for the couple, separate from the British monarchy.

Since leaving the royal fold, Meghan and Harry have faced challenges and speculation about their life in the U.S. The decision to embrace Sussex comes amid rumors about their marriage and legal issues tied to Harry’s visa, alongside Meghan’s new endeavors, such as her lifestyle brand and a return to Instagram. The choice also reignites discussions about the use of royal titles, as “Sussex” harks back to the dukedom granted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018.

A shift rooted in family ties

Meghan’s decision to adopt Sussex as her public name goes beyond personal preference—it mirrors her journey as a mother and spouse. Speaking to People, she explained that sharing the surname with Harry and their children—Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3—brought an unexpected sense of belonging. “I love that it’s something Archie, Lili, H, and I have together,” she said, affectionately referring to her husband. This move could be seen as an effort to solidify the Sussex family identity in the United States, where they’ve resided since leaving the UK.

The couple, now settled in Montecito, California, after stepping away from royal life, has pursued financial and personal independence. Meghan, once known for her role in “Suits” before marrying Harry, has returned to her career, focusing on media and lifestyle projects. Her show with Mindy Kaling is part of this new chapter, as is her American Riviera Orchard brand, which has faced delays due to trademark issues. Embracing Sussex aligns with this reinvention, bridging her past as an actress with her present as a public figure.

For Harry, the change carries symbolic weight too. Fifth in line to the British throne, he retains the title of Duke of Sussex, but emphasizing the shared surname underscores their distance from the monarchy. Friends have noted that the prince struggles with bouts of boredom and frustration in the U.S., balancing family life with a longing to reconnect with the UK. Meghan’s choice might serve as a way to anchor their family in a cohesive identity during this transition.

Context of tensions and new ventures

As Meghan focuses on her new identity, the British royal family continues to grapple with the fallout from the couple’s departure. Ties with King Charles III and Prince William remain strained since 2020, worsened by Harry’s memoir “Spare” and their 2022 Netflix series. Recently, speculation about Charles III’s funeral has intensified, with reports suggesting Queen Camilla opposes Meghan’s attendance due to lingering friction. Adopting Sussex in this climate could be interpreted as a declaration of independence amid these ongoing disputes.

In the U.S., Harry faces a separate hurdle: a legal battle over his visa. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative group, is pushing for the release of his immigration records, questioning whether he disclosed drug use mentioned in “Spare.” Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory has fueled deportation rumors, with analysts suggesting the prince lost political cover from the prior administration. While the case remains unresolved, this uncertainty adds complexity to their American life.

Meanwhile, Meghan presses forward with her projects. Her Instagram return in January 2025, after nearly seven years away, garnered over 400,000 followers in hours. Now under the handle @meghan, the account reflects her current phase, showcasing life in Montecito and hints of American Riviera Orchard. The series with Mindy Kaling, yet to confirm a release date, promises to delve into lifestyle, cooking, and wellness—areas Meghan aims to master as a “guru” in the field.

The weight of Sussex in royalty and beyond

Adopting Sussex as a public surname is no small matter for Meghan. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles were bestowed by Buckingham Palace in May 2018, on their wedding day. Since then, they’ve leveraged the dukedom in efforts like Sussex Royal, a brand they dropped post-“Megxit” at the monarchy’s behest. Meghan’s choice revisits debates over the commercial use of titles, which previously irked royal family members. Yet in the U.S., where noble titles hold no legal sway, the shift feels more personal than provocative.

Reactions in the UK vary. Some view it as a final break from the monarchy, while others see it as a marketing play for Meghan’s ventures. The duchess has faced scrutiny for public appearances blending glamour and simplicity—like wearing a Max Mara coat in summer or a relaxation patch at an event. Highlighting Sussex might unify her image, tying her family life to the public persona she’s shaping.

For their children, the shift has implications too. Archie and Lilibet, born with the Mountbatten-Windsor surname, are now more linked to Sussex in their parents’ narrative. A rare photo of the kids in a December 2024 Christmas card reinforced this united family image. Protecting their privacy remains key, with Harry voicing concerns about bringing them to the UK over security fears.

Timeline of Meghan and Harry’s U.S. journey

Since leaving the UK, Meghan and Harry have navigated defining moments that shape their current path. Here’s a look at key events:

  • January 2020: The couple announces their exit from royal duties, seeking financial independence.
  • June 2020: They settle in Montecito, California, after a stint in Canada.
  • March 2021: An Oprah Winfrey interview exposes royal tensions, including racism allegations.
  • January 2023: Harry’s “Spare” memoir details family rifts.
  • December 2024: A Christmas card features a rare photo of Archie and Lilibet.
  • January 2025: Meghan rejoins Instagram, quickly gaining 400,000 followers.
  • March 2025: Meghan announces Sussex as her new public name during filming with Mindy Kaling.

This timeline highlights their steady evolution toward a distinct identity, now cemented with the Sussex name.

Impacts and speculation on the decision

Meghan’s shift to Sussex is already rippling through media circles. In the U.S., where she’s a prominent influencer, the name could bolster her personal brand. American Riviera Orchard, slated for a 2025 launch, may benefit from the surname’s air of sophistication and exclusivity. Branding experts note this aligns Meghan with figures like Martha Stewart, who turned lifestyle into commercial empires.

In the UK, the effect is more divisive. King Charles III, battling cancer since 2024, is reportedly “fed up” with his son and daughter-in-law’s actions. Queen Camilla has signaled she’d bar Meghan from future events like the king’s funeral. Choosing Sussex might subtly challenge this stance, reaffirming their claim to the title. Harry, who lost a legal bid for UK security, also faces government pushback, dimming prospects of a full return.

Fans have embraced the change, with social media praising the family unity it represents. The Mindy Kaling filming, though not widely previewed, has sparked curiosity about how Meghan will present her new identity on-screen.

What lies ahead for Meghan Sussex

Looking forward, adopting Sussex signals a consolidation phase for Meghan. She plans to launch American Riviera Orchard in 2025, offering products from jams to decor, per early filings. The Mindy Kaling series, centered on cooking and wellness, will complement this, positioning her as a lifestyle authority. Harry, meanwhile, is producing “Polo,” a Netflix series exploring the sport’s behind-the-scenes.

Montecito remains their hub. Their $14 million-plus mansion recently hosted friends during Los Angeles wildfires, showing community ties. Despite separation rumors, the Christmas card photo and Sussex focus suggest stability. The name change is another chapter in their reinvention.

Harry faces ongoing legal and personal hurdles. The U.S. visa dispute lingers, and his rift with William persists—evident at Lord Robert Fellowes’ 2024 funeral, where the brothers didn’t speak. Yet the Sussex identity gives the couple a foothold, blending royal roots with future ambitions.



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