Wait, Who Are the ‘Senior’ Members of the Royal Family Now That Meghan & Harry Have Moved on?
It’s no secret that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have moved on from being “senior” members of the royal family. While we have countless questions about their new lives in Montecito, we’re still stuck on the fact that there’s such a thing as a “senior” family member.
As it turns out, there’s a little-known hierarchy that separates active and non-active royals. According to Royal Central, the term “senior” refers to “any member who continually carries out duties in their own right and on behalf of the crown.” Basically, this includes any person who regularly attends royal engagements on behalf of Queen Elizabeth, in addition to serving their title. Everyone else—like Princess Beatrice—is considered a “minor” (or “non-working”) royal.
So, who are the “senior” members of the royal family? Keep reading for all the details.
1. Queen Elizabeth
Title: Queen of England (for short)
As the longest-standing British monarch, this one’s a given.
2. Prince Charles
Title: Prince of Wales
He’s first in line to the British throne, so he has no choice. (No offense, Prince Charles.)
3. Camilla Parker Bowles
Title: Duchess of Cornwall
As the future Queen Consort, Bowles is a patron of several noteworthy charities, including Barnardo’s, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and The Royal School of Needlework.
4. Prince William
Title: Duke of Cambridge
He’s second in line to the British throne and, therefore, expected to carry out his royal duties.
5. Kate Middleton
Title: Duchess of Cambridge
In addition to attending events, Middleton also has a joint charity with her husband, The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
6. Prince Edward
Title: Earl of Wessex
Although he's less involved than Prince Charles, Prince Edward is still considered a senior member of the royal family.
7. Countess Sophie
Title: Countess of Wessex
Ever since Prince Harry and Markle resigned, the Countess of Wessex has stepped up to carry out official duties.
8. Princess Anne
Title: Princess Royal
As the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Princess Anne is still an active member of the royal family.
Stay up-to-date on every breaking royal family story by subscribing here.
RELATED: Listen to ‘Royally Obsessed,’ the Podcast for People Who Love the Royal Family
