Lilibet: A Royal Name Wrapped in Controversy

The name Lilibet has stirred up quite the storm since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle revealed it as their daughter's name, born on June 4, 2021.

The couple initially claimed they had the blessing of Queen Elizabeth II, Harry's grandmother, to use her cherished childhood nickname as a tribute.

However, recent revelations from royal author Robert Hardeman's book, “Charles III, New King, New Court: The Inside Story,” suggest otherwise.

According to Hardeman, the Queen was not pleased upon discovering that Harry and Meghan had named their daughter Lilibet without her explicit permission.

Reports indicate that she expressed her frustration to palace aides, stating, “I don't own the palaces or the paintings, only my name, and now they've taken that.”

This revelation raises significant questions about the couple's narrative surrounding the name.

Further complicating the situation, a palace source informed the BBC that Harry and Meghan did not consult the Queen before making the announcement.

This directly contradicts the couple's claims about receiving the Queen's support.

In response, a spokesperson for the Sussexes insisted they had indeed secured the Queen's blessing.

Yet, this assertion faced scrutiny from Lady Colin Campbell, a royal biographer known for her critical stance on Harry and Meghan.

Lady Colin Campbell asserted that the couple must have misled both the Queen and the public.

She emphasized that there is no way the Queen would have permitted the use of her name, given her protective nature over her reputation.

Campbell went on to argue that Harry and Meghan seemed to be exploiting the Queen's goodwill to enhance their own public image, suggesting that their actions were more about personal branding than genuine affection.

Critics within royal circles have also voiced their concerns about the appropriateness of using the name Lilibet.

Many believe it to be disrespectful to adopt such a personal nickname for a child who is not part of the working royal family and resides across the ocean.

This sentiment echoes the larger narrative questioning the authenticity of Harry and Meghan's tribute, especially considering their history of distancing themselves from the monarchy.

The name Lilibet has become emblematic of the ongoing rift within the royal family.

It highlights the drama and tension that have unfolded since Harry and Meghan stepped back from their royal duties and relocated to the United States.

The choice of name has not only sparked debate but has also exposed contradictions in the couple's narrative regarding their relationship with the Queen and the royal family.

As this saga unfolds, it's clear that the name Lilibet carries more than just sentimental value; it has ignited a royal scandal that encapsulates the complexities of Harry and Meghan's journey.

Their decision to name their daughter after the Queen has led to a backlash that reveals deeper issues within the family dynamic.

With each new development, the controversy surrounding Lilibet continues to grow.

It serves as a reminder of the challenges Harry and Meghan face in navigating their identities as former royals while trying to maintain connections with the institution they distanced themselves from.

The name has become a focal point for discussions about loyalty, respect, and the evolving nature of the royal family.