The Slimmed-Down Monarchy Dilemma
Since King Charles began his “slimmed-down monarchy” plan in 2012, the royal family has moved away from expanding its working members. Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, once expected to carry out royal duties, now live regular working lives. Even they haven’t appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony in years.
It’s hard to imagine the British public warming to Archie and Lilibet—Californian-raised, unfamiliar with UK traditions—as future royal representatives.
Would William Allow It?
The biggest obstacle may be Prince William himself. By the time Harry’s children are old enough to take on public duties, William is expected to be King—and he reportedly has a strained relationship with his brother. One source told The Daily Beast last year that William “absolutely f**king hates” Harry.
If cousins like Beatrice and Eugenie haven’t been welcomed into royal duties, it seems even less likely that Harry’s American-born children would be invited to join the fold.
Looking to the Future
Perhaps one day, the royal family will need new faces and Archie and Lilibet will embrace their heritage and choose public service. But for now, the idea of them returning as working royals seems far-fetched.
Still, Harry continues to surprise—both the public and the palace. Maybe the same will be true of his children, whether in Montecito or one day, back in London.
