The question on everyone’s mind: Is Meghan Markle about to lose her Duchess of Sussex title for turning it into a money-making venture? Ever since stepping back from royal duties, Meghan has clung to her title, now even using it for her online shop.
Her website, "Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex," features a curated collection of products she loves—complete with commissionable links, meaning she earns money every time someone makes a purchase. This move has sparked widespread backlash, with critics accusing her of monetizing her royal title.
The Daily Mail reports that Meghan is facing harsh criticism for leveraging her connection to the monarchy for profit. On Monday, she took to Instagram Stories to announce her new venture, writing: "Many of you have asked, so here you go!"—though many are wondering, who actually asked for this?
A quick browse through the shop reveals overpriced, uninspired fashion items, raising further concerns about the ethical implications of her business model. One particularly controversial product is a handbag priced at $750, reportedly made by Rwandan women earning as little as 10 pence an hour. The stark contrast between the labor wages and Meghan’s potential earnings has only intensified the backlash.
Research into affiliate marketing earnings suggests that high-level influencers can make anywhere from $82,000 to $125,000 per year, with top earners raking in over $10,000 per month. This means Meghan could be making more in a single year from these commissions than the women producing these so-called "ethical" handbags will see in a lifetime. And all of this is happening under the banner of her royal title.
Royal experts, including Daily Mail’s Rebecca English, have weighed in, noting that this blatant commercialization of her status is a clear violation of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s directives. The Sandringham Agreement explicitly stated that the Sussexes were not to use their titles for commercial gain. Yet, here we are, watching Meghan do exactly that.
Social media has erupted with criticism. A YouTube commentator, "According to Taz," called Meghan’s latest business move "a final insult to Queen Elizabeth and the monarchy." Others argue that this has been a long time coming, with Meghan gradually testing the waters before launching her most overtly commercial endeavor yet.
Many royal watchers believe it’s time for King Charles to act. Calls are growing for him to either strip Meghan and Harry of their titles or place them into abeyance to prevent further exploitation. The longer this continues, the more it risks tarnishing the monarchy’s reputation.
Meghan’s actions place the royal family in an increasingly difficult position. If they ignore it, they allow the Sussexes to continue using their titles for personal gain. If they act, it could fuel further accusations of mistreatment and royal drama. The monarchy is at a crossroads, and the public is watching closely.
So, will King Charles finally step in and put an end to Meghan’s monetization of her royal title? Many believe he must—before it further damages the institution he is now tasked with upholding. What do you think? Should Meghan and Harry be stripped of their titles once and for all?
