As the article states, they don't have to use one. Officially Mountbatten-Windsor is supposed to be used as the first choice if a last name is desired, but both William and Harry use "Wales" for their school/military careers (presumably easier/less of a mouthful?).
I'm a little surprised that they chose only three names (all of the other Windsor men have 4).
George is cute for a prince/king. Not so much for a commoner. NMS. But I like Louis a lot. Alexander is kind of overdone to me, so I'm glad it's the middle name.
George is NMS. I like Alexander better for a first name. I think Alexander George Louis flows better.
I agree. Some people are speculating that they might call him Alexander or Alex as a private family name because I guess that is something they commonly do in the royal family? I def like that better.
Did anyone else read that Charles is expected to assume the name George when he ascends to the throne?
I've read so much about the royals over the last few days that I'm not sure I have it all straight...
That's what the speculation is, but Charles himself won't comment on what his regnal/king name might be.
Ditto pixiedust, I'm surprised they only gave him three names. They're all nice choices. I've always liked the name George and I'm sure it'll be quite fashionable now!
I was thinking to myself earlier today that George and Stephen are the only male monarch names that aren't currently in use by someone in the living royal family, and wondering if they'd go with one of those or use something that no king (but still princes) have used - Alfred, Leopold, etc.
I'm surprised that "Philip" isn't included at all. But people have pointed out that the name "Louis" is what's representing Prince Philip's family. I'm also surprised that they didn't throw in "Michael" to honor Kate's father, since William seems to be really fond of Kate's parents.
pixiedust I was surprised by only 3 names too. And also that they're calling him the prince of Cambridge. Wouldn't it make more sense to call him the prince of Windsor? I know they're the duke and duchess of Cambridge but when QE dies, won't he become the prince of wales? I thought Cambridge was just a courtesy title.