How Princess Anne’s Death Will Affect Princess Charlotte

Royal Family — Princess Charlotte's First Birthday Zak Hussein - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images

Princess Charlotte is the second child of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and she is the fourth in line to the throne. Her official royal title is Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, a name she inherited at birth.

However, it was reported that the princess’ current title would be changed because of a royal rule. According to Express, Prince William’s daughter may be forced to take up a new title, though she couldn’t claim it as of this time. The publication explained that the young princess will have a new name when Princess Anne passes away.

170926 Photograph by John Angerson. Official opening by HRH Princess Anne. of the Sammy Ofer Centre, London Business School, London, UK London Business School - Advancement / Flickr

Since she is the daughter of Prince William and Kate, Princess Charlotte is currently the next royalty who is set to have the prestigious title of Princess Royal. Just like the queen or king, this title may only be held by one family member at a time.

Only the direct descendants of the heir to the throne are allowed to have it. This means that Prince Harry’s son, Archie, isn’t entitled to have this honor.

There is another royal title that Princess Charlotte could have when she grows older, and this usually being bestowed by Queen Elizabeth as a gift. Just like her father and uncle Harry, she may be granted the dukedom when she gets married. The decision still lies on what the Queen decides on, so there’s no assurance that Prince George’s sister will get this title.

It is still a long time before Princess Charlotte may have to change her title. But these are her potential names in the future.

Meanwhile, the four-year-old princess is starting school already, and this was confirmed by Kensington Palace. She will attend Thomas’s Battersea school starting Sept. 5.

People reported that Princess Charlotte is excited and can’t wait to join her brother in school. Her big brother is said to be ready to show her the school and to guide her throughout their school experience.

“They are close in age, and they spend so much time together,” the source told the magazine. “Playdates with outsiders can be tricky, so they learn to lean on each other.”