LONDON — In a surprising and emotional development, Doria Ragland, mother of the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle, has reportedly reached out to the Royal Family in an attempt to discuss the future and standing of her grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, within the monarchy.
According to sources close to the Sussex circle, Doria expressed concern that Archie (5) and Lilibet (3) have been “entirely left out” of royal recognition, legacy discussions, and long-term financial considerations — despite being grandchildren of the reigning monarch, King Charles III.
“She’s not asking for titles or money for herself,” said one insider.
“She just wanted to open a dialogue about her grandchildren’s place in the family — their sense of identity and connection.”
A Quiet but Bold Approach
Rather than going through public channels, Doria reportedly sent a private message to the Palace, believed to be respectful in tone but clear in intent. The message expressed her hope that Archie and Lilibet would not be forgotten, especially as they grow older and begin to understand their royal heritage.
She is said to have emphasized that both children were born into this lineage, regardless of geography or politics.
“It was a grandmother speaking from the heart,” a source added.
“She wanted acknowledgment — not headlines.”
The Palace’s Response
The response from royal aides, according to reports, was polite but firm — and deeply disappointing to those close to Doria.
She was told that “at this time, no changes would be made” regarding the status of Archie and Lilibet within the working royal family, and that decisions about titles, roles, and privileges had already been settled following the Sussexes’ departure from senior royal duties in 2020.
There was reportedly no personal reply from King Charles or Prince William.
“It was heartbreaking,” one source said.
“Doria wasn’t pushing for controversy. She just didn’t want the children to feel like they were invisible.”
A Growing Sense of Distance
This development comes as tensions between the Sussexes and the Royal Family remain unresolved. While Archie and Lilibet were granted the titles of Prince and Princess earlier this year, the family has largely been excluded from public royal events.
Neither child has spent significant time with their royal relatives in the UK, and Doria has quietly remained one of their most consistent, present figures — often stepping into roles traditionally filled by extended family.
What Comes Next?
While it’s unclear whether Doria or Meghan will make further attempts to engage with the Palace, sources say this moment was a turning point — not in policy, but in emotion.
“Doria did what any loving grandmother would do,” said a friend of the family.
“She stood up for her grandchildren — even when the answer hurt.”