Prince Harry Fears William Could Strip Archie and Lilibet of Royal Titles

A new book claims Harry worries his brother will show "no mercy" when he becomes king.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:01pm

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According to a new book by royal reporter Tom Bower, Prince Harry is concerned that when his brother Prince William becomes king, he could choose to remove Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet's 'HRH' titles, as Harry and Duchess Meghan are no longer working royals. The book claims Harry fears William will show "no mercy" toward his family when he has all the power.

Why it matters

The rift between the two brothers has been well-documented, and this latest report suggests the tensions could impact the royal status of Harry's children. The removal of royal titles is a significant action that would further divide the brothers and their families.

The details

Bower's book "Betrayal: Power, Deceit And The Fight For The Future Of The Royal Family" alleges that Harry's concern comes after King Charles III stripped brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his royal titles and honors due to his ties to the late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. The author claims this made Harry realize his own royal status is "no longer invincible," and therefore his kids' titles could be at risk.

  • In 2022, after Princess Lilibet was born, Charles and Harry agreed that both of Harry's kids, Archie, 6, and Lili, 4, would use 'prince' and 'princess' titles.

The players

Prince Harry

The Duke of Sussex, who is reportedly concerned about the future royal status of his children Archie and Lilibet.

Prince William

Harry's brother, who is expected to become king in the future and could potentially strip Archie and Lilibet of their royal titles according to the book.

Duchess Meghan

Harry's wife, who is no longer a working royal and whose "disloyalty" could potentially lead William to strip Archie and Lilibet's titles.

Tom Bower

The author of the book "Betrayal: Power, Deceit And The Fight For The Future Of The Royal Family" that makes these claims about Harry's fears.

King Charles III

The current monarch who stripped Prince Andrew of his royal titles and honors, an action that reportedly made Harry realize his own family's royal status is "no longer invincible."

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What they’re saying

“Clearly, William was taking no prisoners. Once he was crowned as king, his brother might well show no mercy to him and Meghan.”

— Tom Bower, Author

What’s next

The book's claims have been denied by a spokesperson for the Sussexes, so it remains to be seen if any action will be taken regarding Archie and Lilibet's royal titles.

The takeaway

This report highlights the ongoing tensions within the royal family and the potential consequences they could have, even for the younger generation. It underscores the fragility of royal titles and the power a reigning monarch wields over them.