Alright, let’s talk about something fascinating. When Meghan Markle walks down the aisle to marry Prince Harry, many of us are wondering: will she take on a new last name? This royal wedding isn’t just about love—it’s also about tradition, titles, and names. So, here’s the scoop on what Meghan might be called after she officially becomes a member of the royal family. Let’s dive in!
What’s Prince Harry’s Last Name Anyway?
Here’s the deal: Prince Harry, like many royals, doesn’t usually go around using a last name. But if he does, it gets a little complicated. According to royal protocol, members of Queen Elizabeth’s family who aren’t styled as Royal Highness or titled Prince/Princess (or women who marry into the family) can use the last name Mountbatten-Windsor. That’s a blend of the Queen’s surname, Windsor, and Prince Philip’s family name, Mountbatten. But Harry sometimes uses "Wales" as a last name, which comes from his dad’s title, the Prince of Wales. Confusing, right? Let me break it down further.
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What’s Meghan Markle’s Full Name, and Will It Change?
Currently, Meghan’s full name is Rachel Meghan Markle—yes, Meghan is actually her middle name! But here’s where things get interesting. After the wedding bells ring, Meghan could choose to take on the last name Mountbatten-Windsor if she wants to. That would make her full name Rachel Meghan Mountbatten-Windsor. However, it’s not a requirement. According to royal historian Carolyn Harris, junior members of the royal family have the option to use a surname if they wish. But let’s be honest, it’s not like Meghan will be signing her name as "Rachel Meghan Mountbatten-Windsor" on her grocery receipts anytime soon.
Here’s the kicker: the surname Windsor was officially confirmed by Queen Elizabeth when she ascended the throne in 1952, and Mountbatten comes from Prince Philip’s side of the family. But here’s the thing—many royals don’t even use a last name in everyday life. As the official royal website states, “Members of the Royal Family can be known both by the name of the Royal house, and by a surname, which are not always the same. Often, they don’t use a surname at all.”
So, what does this mean for Meghan and Harry? Well, royal expert Marlene Koenig shared some insights with Town & Country: “Once married, Meghan will sign as just ‘Meghan’—no last name. Just like Harry signs as ‘Harry.’ Royals typically only use their first names. However, when it comes to official documents, like the marriage register, Harry might use Mountbatten-Windsor. This has been the tradition for royals like Anne, Andrew, and Edward when they tied the knot. Interestingly, Charles didn’t use a surname on his marriage register, and we don’t even know what William used because he chose not to make it public.”
What’s Next for Meghan’s Name?
So, will Meghan embrace the Mountbatten-Windsor name or stick with her current one? That’s the million-dollar question. One thing’s for sure: whatever she chooses, it’s going to be part of her new royal identity. And let’s not forget, she’s about to step into a world where traditions and titles carry a lot of weight.
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