In a stunning and unexpected royal twist, Princess Anne has reportedly taken steps to name her grand-niece, Princess Charlotte, as the next “Princess Royal”—a title traditionally reserved for the eldest daughter of the monarch. The move has sent shockwaves through the royal household and sparked fierce debate, particularly because it bypasses Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s daughter, Princess Lilibet Diana, who is technically also eligible for consideration.
According to insider sources, Princess Anne—who currently holds the title of Princess Royal—has privately expressed her desire for the honor to be passed directly to Princess Charlotte, the daughter of Prince William and Princess Catherine. The decision, reportedly supported by King Charles III, is being described as both symbolic and strategic: a public affirmation of the Cambridge family's central role in the monarchy's future.
“The Princess Royal title is more than ceremonial—it's a mark of deep trust and responsibility,” said a former royal advisor. “Granting it to Charlotte, even before Anne passes, sends a loud message about the royal line of succession and where loyalty within the Firm truly lies.”
What makes the decision even more controversial is the exclusion of Princess Lilibet, who, despite living in California and being removed from day-to-day royal life, still carries a royal title and is seventh in line to the throne. Critics of the Sussexes argue that Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties effectively disqualified Lilibet from any traditional honors—though no such official statement has ever been made.
Royal watchers have noted the timing of the announcement, which comes just days after Harry and Meghan appeared at a high-profile charity event in New York, signaling their ongoing desire to maintain relevance on the global stage. The snub has reportedly left the Sussex camp “surprised and deeply hurt,” although no official comment has been released.
Meanwhile, Princess Charlotte—at just ten years old—has already shown signs of rising to the occasion. Often praised for her poise and confidence during royal engagements, many see her as a modern embodiment of royal strength and duty. The title “Princess Royal,” first introduced in 1642, is traditionally held for life, making Anne’s informal decision to “pass the torch” all the more groundbreaking.
As the monarchy adapts to a new era, this bold move seems to signal a generational shift—and perhaps a not-so-subtle realignment of royal favor. Whether symbolic or officially sanctioned, the decision has only added fuel to the ongoing tensions between the Firm and the Sussexes, raising one very royal question: Who really belongs at the heart of the crown?