Meghan Markle is once again at the center of royal controversy after signing a personal gift note using the “HRH” designation—despite an agreement made in 2020 that she and Prince Harry would no longer use the styling after stepping back from senior royal duties.
The note, attached to a gift basket reportedly sent to a close friend, was signed “With the compliments of HRH The Duchess of Sussex.” While the gesture was made in a private context, critics argue that using the title at all—whether for personal, public, or commercial reasons—violates the spirit of the couple’s departure terms.
Under the original arrangement, Meghan and Harry were allowed to retain their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles, but agreed not to use “His/Her Royal Highness” titles in any official or promotional capacity. The latest incident has reignited debates over whether the couple should continue to hold any royal styling at all.
Some royal watchers see this as a subtle attempt to maintain the prestige and influence of royal association while living independently from the institution. Others are calling for the monarchy to formally revoke the HRH titles altogether, arguing that the ongoing use blurs boundaries and fuels confusion over the couple’s standing.
The situation adds fuel to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the couple’s public image and relationship with the Crown, as questions continue to surface about their balancing act between royal legacy and private autonomy.