5 Things That May Change for Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet When William Becomes King

Prince William taking the throne one day is inevitable, and with that, he is expected to make major changes to the monarchy. Over the years, the Prince of Wales has reportedly favored a slimmer, more focused royal family—a vision that could significantly impact Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Let’s explore how their place within the institution could look once William becomes king.

When King Charles became monarch in 2022, Archie and Lilibet automatically became Prince and Princess under royal rules dating back to 1917. However, that does not necessarily mean those titles are guaranteed forever. As King, William would have the power to issue new Letters Patent and change who is entitled to princely styles. While there has been no official sign that he plans to do so, royal experts have repeatedly speculated that a slimmer monarchy could eventually include reviewing the Sussex children's titles.

Right now, Archie and Lilibet are sixth and seventh in the line of succession, behind William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, and Prince Harry. When William eventually becomes King, they will remain in the line of succession, but they are likely to move further away from the throne over time. That is because as George, Charlotte, and Louis grow up and have children of their own, those future generations will take priority—naturally pushing Harry and his children down the order.

William has long advocated for the idea of a 'streamlined monarchy,' meaning a smaller group of senior royals carrying out official duties. If that approach continues when he becomes King, Archie and Lilibet are unlikely to have any official role within the institution. Since they are growing up in California and are expected to live as private citizens, royal insiders believe they will not be called upon to represent the Crown or be seen at major royal events, as we have seen with royal cousins Zara Tindall or the York sisters.

Harry and Meghan have lived in California since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, while William and his family remain in the UK. With the brothers still estranged, that physical and emotional distance is expected to only grow during William's reign. If relationships do not improve, Archie and Lilibet may grow up with limited contact not only with their uncle but also with their cousins, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

As William's reign shifts the monarchy toward its next generation, Archie and Lilibet's royal connection will likely fade into the background. With no expected role as working royals and their lives firmly established in California, they are bound to become increasingly distant from the institution. Instead, the royal spotlight will focus on George, Charlotte, and Louis as the true future of the monarchy. Such was also the case as seen with Edward VIII. Once young Queen Elizabeth took the throne, the world forgot about her uncle, the King, who abdicated abd moved to the US. With Charles still around, the press for now, still remembers Archie and Lilibet's royal lineage.