Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have stirred the internet once again—with a simple Instagram post. While couples often choose affectionate names like “Babe,” “Honey,” or “Sweetheart,” royals also have their private nicknames. Queen Elizabeth II was famously called Lilibet and Cabbage by Prince Philip, while Kate Middleton coined playful nicknames for Prince William during their college days.
Now, the spotlight is on Meghan Markle’s latest nickname for her husband, Prince Harry. The revelation emerged from a recent Instagram post, igniting debates among fans and critics alike.
What Nickname Did Meghan Reveal?
In her post for International Women’s Day on March 8, Meghan referred to Harry as “Papa Sussex”. The photo showed Meghan and their 4-year-old daughter, Lilibet, by the sea, with the caption: “For the woman she will one day be… Happy International Women’s Day.” The nickname appears in the post because Harry was credited as the photographer.
Why Is This Nickname Controversial?
Opinions on Meghan’s nickname vary widely. Some critics labeled it “cringe,” “pretentious,” or “weird,” saying it sounded “grandfatherly” or even like “Papa Smurf.” Detractors argue it’s performative and overly focused on the Sussex title. On the other hand, fans defended the choice, pointing out that Archie and Lilibet actually call their father “Papa,” making the nickname feel natural and affectionate. Adding “Sussex” aligns with their family name, which Harry and Meghan continue to use publicly.
Understanding Their Family Name
Technically, the royal family shares the surname Mountbatten-Windsor, though Harry and Meghan rarely use it. Historically, royal members did not have official surnames before 1917, simply using their house name, such as Wales or Sussex. Since leaving official royal duties, Harry and Meghan have gone by Sussex, and their children follow suit as Archie and Lilibet Sussex. Even after losing the HRH styles, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex can still use this nickname reference freely.
Other Nicknames Meghan Uses for Harry
Meghan has shared other private nicknames in the past. In the ITV documentary Harry and Meghan: An African Journey, she revealed that early in their relationship, they used initials—H and M—to maintain privacy. Later, on The Late Late Show, Harry referred to Meghan as “Meg,” while she called him “Haz.” Clearly, the couple enjoys playful nicknames to keep their bond personal and light-hearted.
Royal Nicknames Across the Family
Other royal couples also use secretive or playful nicknames. For instance:
- Charles and Camilla: Known to use “Fred” and “Gladys” during their early relationship.
- Kate and William: William has called Kate “Babykins” and “DoD,” while Kate teased him with “Big Willy” and “Baldy.”
- Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie: Go by “Trixie Belle” and “Euge.”
- Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip: The late queen was called “Lilibet” and “Cabbage” by Philip.
Meghan’s nickname for Harry joins this long-standing royal tradition of affectionate and sometimes quirky monikers.
Final Thoughts
While some may scoff at “Papa Sussex,” the nickname represents the couple’s personal and family life, blending affection with their public identity. Royal nicknames like these remind us that even in the spotlight, love finds its own unique way of expression. Whether you love it or cringe at it, Meghan’s nickname for Harry is officially part of the royal nickname legacy.
