Princess Anne, according to a royal expert, may have viewed royal titles for her children as more of a burden than a benefit after they were pushed further down the line of succession. Afua Hagan commented on the decision made by Anne and her ex-husband, Captain Mark Philips, not to give royal titles to their children, Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips.
Although Queen Elizabeth II offered Mark an earldom, which he declined, the couple also rejected royal titles for their children when they were born. The expert speculated that Anne realized a royal title might hinder rather than assist her children as they moved away from the direct line of succession.
The documentary ‘Mike: The Royal & The Rugby Player’ revealed that both Zara and Peter were offered royal titles but Anne and Mark chose to decline in the hope of providing their children with a more normal life. Anne defended her decision in a 2020 Vanity Fair interview, stating that having titles could have downsides.
Zara and Mike Tindall, who tied the knot in 2011, have become more involved in public activities, particularly following recent royal events. They have shared insights into their experiences within the Royal Family and have expressed a lack of interest in having royal titles. Mike mentioned at a charity event that he would turn down such an opportunity if offered.
Zara also praised her mother for not giving them titles, allowing them to lead a more independent life. She emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic and passing down valuable experiences to their children. The couple’s documentary, ‘Zara and Mike: the Royal and the Rugby Player,’ will air on Channel 5 on Saturday, September 13, at 10pm.