Archie’s Endearing Nickname for Prince Harry Reveals Royal Tradition

Prince Harry may be Archie's father, but the two-year-old has a unique nickname for him that sheds light on a longstanding royal family tradition.

In a heartwarming Christmas card released last week, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle delighted fans by sharing the first image of their entire family, including their newborn daughter Lilibet.

The card, adorned with the traditional American holiday greeting “happy holidays,” showcases the couple alongside Archie, who bears a striking resemblance to his father with his mop of red hair.

However, it is worth noting that Archie does not refer to Prince Harry as “dad.”

Instead, the card reads, “This year, 2021, we welcomed our daughter, Lilibet, to the world.

Archie made us a mama and a papa, and Lilibet made us a family.”

The use of “papa” as a nickname harkens back to royal tradition, as Prince Charles referred to his late father, Prince Philip, as “dear papa” during his funeral in April.

Harry himself has been known to affectionately call Charles “pa.”

The charity Rubicon released the Sussexes' Christmas card image, with any funds raised being donated to support Afghan families resettling in US communities.

However, not everyone was pleased with the card.

Royal commentator Neil Sean expressed his speculation on his YouTube channel, suggesting that the royal family might have found the Sussexes' message confusing.

He emphasized the significance of Queen Elizabeth's Christian faith and her deep affection for this time of year.

Sean stated, “So as you can imagine, I'm suspecting her dismay at the Christmas greeting which was on the card.

I'm told this phrase, ‘Happy Holidays,' is very much a Californian slang.”

It is important to note that both “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” are well-known and have been used as seasonal greetings for many years, with the latter dating back to at least 1863.

The release of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas card photo for 2021 has captivated royal fans, offering a first glimpse of their daughter Lilibet.

The adorable snapshot, taken during the summer at their California home, features a beaming Meghan cradling Lilibet, while Prince Harry and Archie join in the joyful moment.

All three are dressed casually in jeans, exuding warmth and happiness.

The photographer behind this stunning image is Alexei Lubomirsky, who has previously worked with the couple on their engagement and wedding photos.

Expressing his honor to capture the Sussexes' journey, Lubomirsky shared, “To be able to continue the story of this family whom I first photographed as an engaged couple, then on the day of their wedding, as a married couple, and now seeing their love manifest into two beautiful children, has been a delightful honor.”

Upon closer inspection of the family snapshot, it becomes apparent that Prince Harry, Archie, and Lilibet are all barefoot.

This is not the first time Harry has opted to go shoeless for an important photo shoot, adding a touch of informality and authenticity to the picture.

The candidness of the image, combined with the endearing nickname used by Archie, further emphasizes the genuine bond within the Sussex family.

In conclusion, the recent Christmas card released by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle provides a heartwarming glimpse into their growing family.

Archie's choice of nickname for his father, Prince Harry, reflects a cherished royal tradition.

While some critics have voiced their disapproval of the card's message, the overwhelming reaction from royal fans has been one of joy and admiration.

The photograph, taken by Alexei Lubomirsky, captures the essence of love, happiness, and togetherness.

With Lilibet's arrival, the Sussexes' family is complete, and their journey continues to inspire and resonate with people around the world.