The question of whether Prince Harry should be stripped of his royal titles and privileges has divided opinion ever since he and Meghan Markle stepped back from senior royal duties in 2020. Harry’s actions — from explosive interviews and a tell-all memoir to ongoing public criticisms of the monarchy — have been seen by some as disloyal attacks on his own family. For others, they represent a brave stand against institutional flaws. As the debate rages in 2026, with King Charles III’s health in focus and Prince William increasingly assertive, the case for and against revoking Harry’s “Duke of Sussex” title and associated perks deserves scrutiny.

Harry’s post-royal path has been marked by repeated public disclosures that many view as direct assaults on the family. His 2021 Oprah interview accused unnamed royals of racism toward his unborn son Archie. The 2022 Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan detailed alleged bullying by palace aides and a “war” against Meghan. Most damaging was his 2023 memoir Spare, which painted Charles as emotionally distant, Camilla as scheming, and William as hot-tempered and physical (alleging a fight that left Harry on the floor). These revelations not only embarrassed the family but also eroded public trust in the monarchy at a vulnerable time — during Queen Elizabeth II’s final years and Charles’s early reign.

Proponents of stripping Harry’s titles argue he has forfeited them through hypocrisy and betrayal. As a non-working royal, he retains the “Duke” title but not the “HRH” style, yet he continues to trade on royal associations for commercial gain — Netflix deals, Spotify podcasts, and book sales have netted millions. Critics like royal biographer Tom Bower call this “monetizing the monarchy” while simultaneously undermining it. William is said to view Harry’s actions as unforgivable, reportedly pushing Charles to revoke the titles to protect the institution. Legally, titles can be removed by Act of Parliament or royal prerogative — precedents exist, like Edward VIII after his abdication. Revoking them would send a clear message: royal privileges come with duties, not just perks.

On the other side, stripping titles could be seen as petty and punitive. Harry has argued his criticisms stem from genuine pain — racism, mental health neglect (Meghan’s suicidal thoughts), and media harassment. Supporters say revoking titles would punish his children Archie and Lilibet, who are innocent and in the line of succession. It could also backfire, making the monarchy appear vindictive and out of touch. Queen Elizabeth II’s 2020 Sandringham Summit allowed Harry to keep his titles while stepping back — revoking them now, under Charles or William, might reopen old wounds and alienate younger, progressive audiences who see Harry as a modern voice.

Charles has shown reluctance for drastic measures, prioritizing family healing amid his cancer battle. Yet with William’s influence growing, the Palace’s recent statements have hardened: no hybrid roles, no privileges for non-working royals. Harry’s UK security has been downgraded, Frogmore Cottage evicted, and invitations to events like Trooping the Colour withheld. Titles may be next.

Ultimately, should Harry be stripped? If privileges demand loyalty, yes — his actions have caused measurable harm to the family’s image. But if the monarchy values forgiveness and evolution, no — punishing Harry further entrenches division. As Charles navigates his legacy and William prepares for kingship, the decision will define the Crown’s future: rigid tradition or adaptable modernity?

Harry’s journey from prince to outsider is tragic. Stripping titles won’t heal the rift — it might just make it permanent. The real question isn’t what Harry deserves, but what the monarchy needs to survive in 2026 and beyond.