Archive · 3 Jun 2025
Prince Harry Considers Spencer Surname For His Family
Prince Harry is thinking about changing his family's last name to Spencer, which was his late mother Princess Diana's maiden name.
He talked it over with his uncle, Charles Spencer, but was told it might be difficult legally.
Currently, his kids use Sussex as their last name.
Royal family members sometimes use their parents' titles as surnames.
This is not the first time surnames have caused some confusion for the family, as Meghan corrected someone for calling her by her maiden name.
Prince Harry considered adopting his mother's maiden name, Spencer, for his family.
Harry discussed the idea with his uncle, Charles Spencer, who advised against it due to potential legal issues.
Harry and Meghan's children currently use "Sussex" as their surname.
The use of surnames in the Royal family has evolved, with children often adopting their parents' titles.
The choice of surname has drawn attention, as Meghan corrected a friend for referring to her by her maiden name, Markle.
- Who
- Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Prince Archie, Princess Lilibet, and Charles Spencer.
- What
- Prince Harry considered changing his family's last name to Spencer.
- When
- Recent discussions
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- To potentially honor Princess Diana and/or distance himself from certain Royal traditions, though there might be legal challenges.
Prince Harry's perspective
Public perception of Royal family
Perceived Disrespect
Prince Harry's perspective
Adding Spencer might be seen as a slight against King Charles.
Public perception of Royal family
Using Spencer would honor his mother, Diana.
- Current family surname
- Sussex
- Official surname
- Mountbatten-Windsor
- Prince Harry's title
- Duke of Sussex
- Meghan Markle's title
- Duchess of Sussex
- Children's current titles
- Prince Archie of Sussex & Princess Lilibet of Sussex