In a dazzling midnight revelation that’s rocked the world, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have announced they’re expecting their third child, igniting a global frenzy of excitement and speculation. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, dropped the bombshell via a heartfelt Archewell post, teasing a “prince or princess” and sparking debates about whether this joyful news can restore her polarizing public image. As fans flood social media with guesses and well-wishes, this pregnancy promises to be a game-changer for the Sussexes’ already dramatic saga.

Meghan and Harry, parents to Archie, 6, and Lilibet, 4, shared their thrill in a glowing statement, calling the baby a “blessing” for their Montecito haven. The announcement, paired with a dreamy photo of Meghan cradling her bump, went viral, racking up millions of views in hours. “We’re over the moon,” the couple wrote, hinting they know the baby’s gender but keeping it secret, fueling bets on whether it’s a boy or girl. Bookies favor a girl, with names like Diana or Rose trending on X, while others predict a boy to join Archie’s “prince” legacy.

Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the Sussexes have forged a new path in California, blending privacy with high-profile ventures like Archewell, Netflix deals, and Meghan’s American Riviera Orchard brand. Their journey—marked by Harry’s Spare, a tell-all Oprah interview, and ongoing royal tensions—has split public opinion. Meghan’s approval ratings hover at 35% in the UK, per recent polls, with critics slamming her as attention-seeking, while supporters hail her as a trailblazer. This pregnancy, due in mid-2026, could shift the narrative. “Babies unite people,” says PR expert Clara Hughes. “Meghan’s motherhood glow might soften her detractors.”

The timing feels strategic, landing during a quiet royal news cycle, with King Charles’ health and Kate Middleton’s recovery in focus. Fans on X are divided: @SussexLoyal calls it “a fresh start,” while @RoyalShade snipes, “Another publicity grab?” The baby, ninth in line to the throne, won’t hold an HRH title but carries symbolic weight. Could it bridge the gap with the Windsors? Insiders suggest Harry and Meghan want their kids to know their royal roots, possibly through a future UK visit, but reconciliation with Prince William remains uncertain.

Meghan’s brand stands to gain, with American Riviera Orchard poised to launch baby-focused products, capitalizing on her maternal image. “This could be a goldmine,” says analyst Mia Torres. “It aligns her lifestyle brand with family values.” Yet, risks linger—overexposure could fuel cynicism. The Sussexes’ knack for controlled reveals, like withholding the gender, keeps fans hooked while shielding their privacy, a balance they’ve mastered with Archie and Lilibet.

Speculation swirls: Will this child inherit Meghan’s activism or Harry’s charm? A girl might evoke Princess Diana’s legacy, while a boy could echo Harry’s “spare” narrative. As the due date approaches, the world watches to see if this baby can recast Meghan as a relatable mother rather than a divisive figure. This pregnancy, a blend of joy and strategy, could be the key to reclaiming her public crown—or spark fresh debate in her rollercoaster journey.