The British Line of Succession: After the Queen’s Passing, Here’s Who’s Who in the Royal Family

In news that has rocked the world, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, has died at 96 after 70 years on the throne.

Buckingham Palace confirmed the news shortly after it was announced that she was struggling with her health.

Born on April 21, 1926, Elizabeth II became Queen after her father, King George VI, passed in 1952. She was only 25-years-old.

Since that moment, she remained devoted to her duty as Queen, and in 2015, she became the UK’s longest-reigning monarch, overtaking her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria, who reigned for over 63 years.

Now that Prince Charles has become King Charles III, the succession to the British crown has changed.

So let’s break it down.

Who Will Take Over as Head of the Monarch?

As the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles immediately ascended to the throne.

He will now be known as King Charles III.

The 73-year-old was the longest-serving British monarch-in-waiting and was the heir apparent since the age of three.

As for formal ceremonies, it’s expected that King Charles III will officially be proclaimed King on September 10, at St James Palace in London.

However, the coronation, where King Charles III will be formally crowned, will likely take place a lot later.

What Is the Current Line of Succession?

With Prince Charles becoming King, his eldest son Prince William will be first in line to the throne. This is followed by William’s eldest son, Prince George, then Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Prince Harry, William’s brother and King Charles III’s youngest son, will be fifth in line.

Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet, now sit in sixth and seventh.

Will Camilla Parker-Bowles’ Title Change?

As the King’s wife, Camilla, previously known as the Duchess of Cornwall, has been given the title of Queen Consort.

Before her passing, Queen Elizabeth II released a groundbreaking statement, saying she wanted her daughter-in-law to be known as Queen Consort when Charles became King.

“When, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me,” the Queen’s statement said. “And it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service.”

This is a massive deal, due to the complicated history of King Charles III’ and Camilla’s relationship.

Because the King had an affair with Camilla while he was still married to the late Princess Diana, and as this was her second marriage, it was believed that she would take the title of Princess Consort.

Who Else’s Titles Will Change?

Prince William, Duke of Cornwall

Prince William, formerly known as the Duke of Cambridge, will now inherit his father’s title, the Duke of Cornwall. 

Despite being heir to the throne, the Prince will not automatically become Prince of Wales — that will have to be given to him by King Charles III. 

Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, will now be known as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge.

Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor

The eldest son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, Archie is sixth in line to the throne.

At the time of his birth, his parents decided it was best for him not to have a title, but now that his grandfather is King, will be eligible to become His Royal Highness Prince Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.