Meghan Markle recently revealed that she uses a different surname in her everyday life, a detail that surprised many viewers of her Netflix series With Love, Meghan. During a conversation with actress and comedian Mindy Kaling on the show, Markle explained that she now identifies with the name “Sussex,” reflecting the title she shares with her husband, Prince Harry.

Markle, who was born Rachel Meghan Markle and became widely known by that name during her acting career—especially while starring in Suits—said the shift in how she refers to herself grew more meaningful after becoming a parent. She and Prince Harry married in 2018 and later welcomed two children: Archie in 2019 and Lilibet in 2021. According to Markle, sharing the name Sussex feels like a way to reflect their family identity and the life they have built together.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions online. Some critics questioned the change and referenced the couple’s decision to step back from senior roles within the British royal family in 2020. Others, however, defended Markle, noting that it is common for families to adopt a shared surname and that the choice reflects a personal decision rather than a formal title change.

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 begin asking about their parents’ relationship, she believes the shared name connects their past, present, and future. For her, the surname has become less about public perception and more about the sense of unity it brings to their household.