Prince Harry is reportedly thinking about changing his last name from Mountbatten-Windsor to Spencer, which was his mother Princess Diana’s maiden name. This news has sparked a lot of discussions, especially because of the ongoing tensions between Harry and the rest of the royal family. According to sources, Harry has already spoken to his uncle, Earl Spencer, about this possible change. However, his uncle advised him against it, saying it could create more problems than it would solve.
The Duke of Sussex seems determined to distance himself from the royal family’s name, possibly as a way to express his feelings about the strained relationship with his father, King Charles, and his brother, Prince William. The name Mountbatten-Windsor is used by the descendants of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, combining the royal family’s name, Windsor, with Prince Philip’s family name, Mountbatten. Harry and Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, currently carry this surname on their birth certificates.
If Harry goes ahead with the change, his daughter’s name would become Lilibet Diana Spencer, which would be a strong tribute to his late mother, Princess Diana. Some royal experts believe this could be a symbolic move to honor her memory while also making a statement about his separation from the royal family. Earlier, royal author Tom Bowen had suggested that Meghan Markle has always admired Diana and may have wanted to keep her legacy alive in their family.
Interestingly, Meghan once corrected someone during her podcast when they called her by her maiden name, Markle. She said, “It’s so funny you keep saying ‘Meghan Markle‘ – you know I’m Sussex now.” She added, “I didn’t know how meaningful it would be to me, but it just means so much to go ‘This is OUR family name. Our little family name.’” This shows how much importance she places on their identity as the Sussexes, separate from the royal family’s traditional name.
Changing his surname would be a big step for Prince Harry, and it could have legal and personal consequences. For now, it seems like he is still considering the idea, but the discussion with Earl Spencer suggests that he may face resistance from his family. The Spencer name carries a lot of emotional weight, especially since Diana was such a beloved figure. If Harry does decide to go through with it, it would send a clear message about where he stands in relation to the royal family.
The public reaction to this news has been mixed. Some people support Harry’s decision, saying he has the right to choose his own identity, especially after stepping back from royal duties. Others feel that changing his name would further deepen the divide between him and his family. The royal family has not officially commented on the matter, but insiders say that such a move would likely be seen as another sign of Harry breaking away from tradition.
This isn’t the first time Harry has made changes to assert his independence. Since moving to the United States with Meghan, he has taken several steps to establish a life outside the royal spotlight. From writing a revealing memoir to starting new business ventures, Harry has been reshaping his public image. A name change could be the next big step in this journey.
For now, the world is waiting to see what Prince Harry decides. Whether he keeps Mountbatten-Windsor or switches to Spencer, his choice will undoubtedly make headlines. One thing is certain—his connection to Princess Diana remains strong, and any decision involving her name will be deeply personal.
The story also brings attention to how last names hold power, especially in royal families. Names like Windsor and Spencer carry history, legacy, and public perception. For Harry, choosing Spencer would not just be about a name—it would be about identity, memory, and perhaps even healing.
As the discussions continue, fans and critics alike will be watching closely. Will Prince Harry officially become Harry Spencer? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear—his actions continue to shape his path, separate from the crown.