Meghan and Harry have allegedly upset the late Queen with a statement that thinly veiled their animosity towards other family members. The Duchess is under scrutiny for incorporating her royal cipher in the branding of her lifestyle company, As Ever. This isn’t the first time controversy has arisen over the couple leveraging their royal status in commercial ventures.
A new Christmas collection from Meghan features her at work, with a notebook prominently displaying her royal cipher in gold lettering. The monogram, showcasing the letter M topped with a coronet, was unveiled prior to her marriage to Harry in 2018. Additionally, she has launched a new candle, No 519, to commemorate their wedding anniversary, drawing inspiration from the joy of their special day.
Criticism has emerged from royal supporters questioning Meghan’s continued use of the royal cipher despite her grievances with the institution. Royal expert Tom Bower suggests that Buckingham Palace officials have long been concerned about the commercialization of the monarchy. The tension escalated when Harry and Meghan were compelled to abandon their “SussexRoyal” branding ambitions after stepping back from royal duties in March 2020 to achieve financial independence.
The couple had expressed dissatisfaction with the decision-making process and treatment in comparison to other royals in a statement on their official website two months prior. The Sussexes insisted that the monarch had no authority to restrict their use of the term ‘royal.’ This move was perceived as offensive towards the Queen and other family members, with subtle jabs at Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
Despite other royals pursuing employment outside the institution, a 12-month review period was imposed on Harry and Meghan. They initially adopted the Sussex Royal brand in 2019 when they separated from Prince William and Princess Kate. However, the Queen and senior officials later decided that they must relinquish their title due to their decision to step down from royal duties and pursue commercial ventures.
The Sussexes’ plan of being part-time working royals was deemed unfeasible, leading to the necessity of distancing themselves from royal branding. While still cherished members of the family, they are no longer permitted to market themselves as royals if not fulfilling official duties and engaging in commercial endeavors.