Prince William is reportedly taking a hands-off approach when it comes to the Sussexes’ royal titles. Despite years of tension and public speculation that he might intervene once he becomes king, a new briefing from a royal insider suggests William has no plans to intervene. Per the source, the decision has less to do with mercy and more to do with optics, timing, and what some allege is the diminishing value of the Sussex brand.
Prince William doesn’t want to look like a ‘petty brother’ by removing Sussexes’ titles, per source
According to commentary shared by royal insider Rob Shuter on “The Nerve” podcast, palace observers claim William is intentionally choosing restraint. Shuter alleged that William is wary of appearing vindictive, especially amid years of public tension between the brothers. “If he strips them, he’ll just look like a petty brother,” Shuter said. He added that sources believe the future king sees ignoring the issue as more strategic than escalating it.
The suggestion comes after years of friction between the brothers, particularly around the couple’s use of their HRH styles. The 2020 Sandringham agreement barred Harry and Meghan from using those titles publicly. However, earlier this year, reports alleged William was especially frustrated when a letter addressed to Meghan as “Your Royal Highness” circulated online.
That said, according to Shuter, William’s thinking has shifted. Shuter claimed the prince now views the Sussex titles as largely symbolic and, in his words, “worthless” to justify taking action. He argued that the couple’s business ventures, which relied heavily on their global name recognition, have struggled in recent years. Although Harry and Meghan secured a renewal with Netflix in mid-2025, industry chatter alleged that their broader Hollywood momentum has cooled compared to early expectations.
Despite ongoing rumors, including unverified claims last fall that William sought adjustments to Archie and Lilibet’s titles, royal commentators stress that there is no indication of imminent action. Many analysts argue that the Sussexes simply no longer pose a “strategic threat” to the monarchy’s image or operations.
