Meghan Markle's Name and the Complexities of Royal Identity

Meghan Markle recently confirmed her "real name" in a new interview. The interview, conducted by Emily Chang, coincided with the release of the second series of her show. The question of her name arose after a similar situation in the first series of her show, where she corrected actress Mindy Kaling for referring to her as Meghan Markle.

During the interview, Meghan explained that she changed her name upon marrying. She acknowledged the complexity of the situation, particularly for those unfamiliar with the nuances of royal titles. When asked if "Sussex" was her real name, she clarified that it was not, but it was used in a general sense. She described her confusion as an American navigating the British system.

Meghan then used her royal title, despite no longer being a working member of the Royal Family. She stated that her legal name is Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, but that Sussex functions as the family name for her and her children. She confirmed that this is the name she has been called since her marriage.

Lord Ivar Mountbatten, a second cousin of King Charles, has commented on Meghan's remarks about her surname. He stated that Meghan's actual family name is Mountbatten-Windsor. He clarified that while they are the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry's name is Harry Mountbatten-Windsor, and Meghan's would be Meghan Mountbatten-Windsor. He also revealed that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet share the same family name.