'No Royal Duties for Archie and Lilibet' in Prince William's Slimmed-Down Monarchy, Reports Say
KEY POINTS
- Sources say the Prince of Wales is focused on creating a leaner, more impactful monarchy.
- William's reign is expected to move further away from royal pomp and toward practical leadership.
- The children of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will reportedly have no formal roles in 'The Firm'.
Prince William is reportedly shaping a bold new vision for the British monarchy, one that may leave Prince Harry's children, Archie and Lilibet, on the sidelines.
As the Prince of Wales turned 43 this month, The Times UK published a revealing profile that offers insight into his evolving strategy for a modern and streamlined royal family. Central to that vision is a tighter working roster that excludes non-resident royals, including Harry and Meghan Markle's children, who now live in California.

Archie and Lilibet Unlikely to Take on Royal Duties
Although no formal announcement has been made, sources close to the heir suggest Archie and Lilibet are unlikely to hold official royal roles under William's future reign. The shift reflects William's broader goal for the monarchy, which prioritises a core group of working royals based in the UK.
'William is laser focused on what a relevant and efficient monarchy looks like in today's world,' a palace insider told The Times. 'And that does not involve expanding the working roster. It means consolidating it.'

Archie and Lilibet remain in the royal line of succession and were granted prince and princess titles in 2023, but their future role in royal life appears increasingly symbolic.
William's Approach to a Modern Royal Family
While King Charles III has also supported a leaner monarchy, William's approach is considered more proactive. Described by aides as focused and results driven, the prince is deeply involved in initiatives such as mental health, homelessness and environmental causes. He is known for personally following up with staff, often sending late night messages to push projects forward.
One close friend told The Times, 'He wants to do things his way. He is not afraid to ask difficult questions and challenge traditions that may no longer serve their purpose.'
William is also said to be uncomfortable with outdated royal customs. He has expressed a dislike for formal pageantry, including ceremonial dress codes and carriage processions at events such as Royal Ascot.
Prince Harry: A Quiet Shift in Priorities
The report also notes a noticeable change in William's attitude towards Prince Harry. After years of strained relations, particularly following the release of Spare, sources say William is no longer preoccupied with the rift.
'What has struck me the most recently is that he just does not mention it at all,' one friend revealed. 'It used to take up a lot of space in his head. Now he has moved on. It is sad, but also much healthier.'
That emotional distance now appears to extend to Harry's family, with no indication of plans to bring Archie and Lilibet into the royal fold.
A New Royal Era Focused on Purpose
Prince William's vision for the future of the monarchy is rooted in clarity, efficiency and public service. Rather than expanding the institution, he is working to redefine it for the modern age.
Although Archie and Lilibet remain loved by the extended royal family, they are unlikely to take on formal duties under William's reign. The future crown, it seems, will be one of focus and function rather than tradition and ceremony.
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