Daily Mail: Meghan & Harry's Choice of Name 'Lilibet' Is a Tribute to Prince Philip
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's choice to name their newborn daughter Lilibet was more of a tribute to Prince Philip and not the Queen, says a royal family friend.
On June 4, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stopped the world when they welcomed their beloved daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, and ever since, the newborn's first name has been the center of discussion.
Several opinions have been shared about the unique moniker ― the pet name of her great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II ― and the latest to speak up is Stewart Pearce, a confidante of the late Princess Diana.
Prince Harry and Meghan at the Commonwealth Day Service 2020 on March 09, 2020 in London, England. | Photo: Getty Images
Pearce, who served as Diana's voice coach, revealed in an interview that the Sussexes' choice of Lilibet was a tribute to Prince Philip ― who passed months before his great-granddaughter was born ― and not the Queen. He explained:
"Harry adored his grandfather, who became a particular line of security for the young prince post-Diana's death."
Pearce claimed that Harry is highly influenced by his late grandfather as they shared similar life experiences, especially with their naval responsibilities. Hence his daughter's first name was inspired by Prince Philip's nickname for the Queen.
Sources reveal that Harry and Meghan are doing their best to keep the royal family updated about the newest addition.
The royal author shared that the name Lilibet also hoped to honor the Queen's private side while serving as an expression of the relaxed upbringing Princess Diana gave him and his brother Prince William.
Earlier this month, royal historian Robert Lacey gave a revelatory commentary about the impact the name Lilibet could have on Harry and Meghan's daughter. Lacey noted that the moniker carries an undeniable weight.
He explained that having a name that belongs to one of the most successful British monarchs has a vital significance, and its importance would most likely be discussed with Lilibet once she's old enough.
Although there were controversial speculations about the Sussexes not having the Queen's blessing to name their daughter Lilibet, sources reveal that Harry and Meghan are doing their best to keep the royal family updated about the newest addition.
An insider revealed that days after welcoming Lilibet, the couple shared a photo of their daughter over text with the rest of the family. The duo is reportedly in a Whatsapp group with the rest of the extended family.
According to reports, Lilibet isn't the only fond nickname the Queen has, although it is the most famous thanks to Harry and Meghan. Another fun moniker that was given to Her Majesty by her late husband is "cabbage."