Prince Harry's surname bombshell prompts call for King Charles to cut ties

Prince Harry's alleged desire to drop the royal surname Mountbatten-Windsor and adopt his mother’s maiden name Spencer has reignited royal tensions, with one expert saying it's time for King Charles III to act.

Speaking to The Sun's Royal Exclusive Show, royal commentator Charles Rae said the 40-year-old Duke of Sussex's apparent wish to rename himself sends a "terrible message" to the royal family. 

"It shows he doesn't really want reconciliation," Rae claimed. "The King should grant his wish, sever him from the royal family."

Harry reportedly reached out to his uncle, Charles, Earl Spencer, but was told that the legal process of changing his surname would be too complex. 

The Duke currently lives in California with Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

This comes just weeks after Harry publicly said he wanted to reconcile with his family, raising eyebrows about his mixed messaging. 

Rae says the contradiction shows Harry is "still unsure" of his role and future, and that King Charles III must now make a decisive move.

RELATED: King Charles sends powerful message as Prince Harry fuels royal feud