Meghan Markle recently shared that she uses a different surname in her everyday life, a detail that surprised many viewers of the Netflix series With Love, Meghan. During a conversation with Mindy Kaling on the show, Markle explained that she now identifies with the name “Sussex,” referencing the title she shares with her husband, Prince Harry.
Markle, who was born Rachel Meghan Markle and became widely recognized under that name during her acting career—particularly for her role in the television series Suits—said the shift in how she refers to herself became more meaningful after becoming a parent. She and Prince Harry married in 2018 and later welcomed two children, Prince Archie of Sussex in 2019 and Princess Lilibet of Sussex in 2021. According to Markle, using the name Sussex reflects the family identity they share.
The announcement prompted mixed reactions online. Some critics referenced the couple’s decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020, while others noted that many families choose a shared surname as part of their personal identity. Supporters emphasized that the decision appears to be a personal choice rather than a formal change to her public title.
In interviews discussing the topic, Markle has said the name Sussex represents an important part of her family story. As her children grow older and ask questions about their parents’ relationship, she believes the shared surname connects their past, present, and future. For her, the name has become less about public attention and more about the sense of unity it brings within their household.