Meghan Markle faces a persistent "contradiction" as she continues to use her Duchess of Sussex title while striving to build an independent personal brand, according to brand and culture expert Nick Ede. The Duchess, 44, has spent six years since quitting royal life with Prince Harry in 2020 developing ventures such as podcasts, a Netflix show, and her own brand As Ever.
Title Remains a Key Asset
The title, granted by Queen Elizabeth II on her wedding day, remains one of her most valuable assets. Ede noted: "Meghan has spent the past few years repositioning herself as a lifestyle entrepreneur, producer and businesswoman. Her commercial identity is now increasingly rooted in America rather than Britain, so it feels natural for her to stay there."
However, he highlighted the contradiction: "Meghan has worked hard to establish herself outside the institution, yet she continues to use the Duchess of Sussex title, which remains one of the most valuable assets in her personal brand."
Advice for Long-Term Strategy
Ede advised a clear decision: "If Meghan wants to build a lasting global lifestyle empire entirely on her own terms, then gradually placing less emphasis on the royal title would demonstrate confidence in the strength of her own name." The title "undoubtedly opens doors globally, but it also keeps her intrinsically linked to the Royal Family she has distanced herself from."
Recent UK Visit
Meghan visited the UK last week with Prince Harry, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet, but flew in on Friday and stayed briefly. Prince Harry arrived earlier on Monday, without his family, due to security arrangements. The delay was attributed to the lack of access to taxpayer-funded armed police protection, requiring time to organise an enhanced security package.
