According to a new book by royal author Robert Hardman, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle supposedly infuriated Queen Elizabeth II with a misleading claim regarding the naming of their daughter, Princess Lilibet. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s decision to name their second child, born in June 2021, after the Queen’s family nickname ‘Lilibet’ sparked controversy, particularly in the period leading up to the Queen’s passing in September 2022.
As reported by The Daily Mail, an aide close to the Queen stated that she was “as angry as I’d ever seen her” following the couple’s implication that she had approved the name. This is detailed in Hardman’s book, ‘Charles III: New King, New Court. The Inside Story’, which explores the dynamics within the royal family.
The Sussexes, who had stepped back from royal duties and relocated to the US, released a statement at the time of their daughter’s birth, suggesting that the name Lilibet was a tribute to the Queen. However, their representation faced backlash for not obtaining the Queen’s permission, leading them to respond with threats of legal action against such claims.
Their spokesperson stated that Prince Harry had discussed the name with the Queen in advance and that he had called her first about it. They maintained that they would not have chosen the name had the Queen not been supportive.
Hardman’s book reveals that the Sussexes’ insistence on their version of events and attempts to involve the Palace in affirming their narrative was met with refusal. The author reflects on the situation, noting that it was another instance where ‘recollections may vary’, highlighting the differing perspectives within the royal family.