Meghan Markle, once a prominent actress recognized for her role in the television series Suits, transitioned into the spotlight as a royal when she married Prince Harry. The couple’s relationship became one of the most publicized unions in recent history, symbolizing both a fairy-tale romance and the challenges that come with royal life. In 2020, they chose to step back from their roles in the United Kingdom, marking a significant shift in their lives and sparking conversations across the globe. Their departure was coupled with numerous criticisms aimed at their outspoken nature, particularly regarding the British Royal Family, which they have spoken about extensively. Now settled in the United States, they seem to be seeking a quieter, more private existence.
Both Meghan and Harry have since embarked on new individual projects in their post-royal lives. Meghan recently launched a lifestyle brand called American Riviera Orchid, focusing on home décor and various culinary products. Meanwhile, Harry has taken several solo trips internationally, leading to rumors about possible strains in their marriage. These speculations have only added to the media frenzy surrounding them.
Since relocating to the U.S., Meghan has faced challenges in maintaining her circle of friends and supporters. Recently, renowned royal commentator Tina Brown—who also shared a friendship with Princess Diana—expressed blunt opinions about Meghan’s journey and actions. Her words echoed sentiments voiced by others in the media, attributing some of the criticism Meghan faces to her own decisions and behavior.
The Sussexes’ transition into American life has not been seamless, despite their privileged lifestyle. They have a luxurious home and are raising two young children, Archie and Lilibet, but this new chapter has brought its own share of scrutiny and challenges. Public perception has been a struggle, as media outlets closely examine each of their decisions, particularly in light of their highly publicized departure from royal duties.
The couple has been vocal in interviews and memoirs, sharing their grievances with the Royal Family and detailing personal struggles. However, these revelations have not come without backlash. Their disclosures led to fractured relationships and, reportedly, the loss of friendships with those who disagreed with their public critiques. Rumors about Harry potentially returning to the UK have circulated widely, especially given his separate public engagements in recent months. This, in turn, has fueled speculation about the status of their marriage. According to sources close to the couple, Meghan is reportedly distressed by the persistence of these rumors, which she feels unfairly target her while Harry garners praise for his initiatives.
A close source conveyed Meghan’s frustrations, stating that the ongoing whispers about their relationship are difficult for her to ignore. The source suggested that their choice to pursue individual projects may be a strategic one, allowing them to focus on causes close to their hearts. Yet Meghan’s sense of discomfort is amplified when she faces harsh criticism, particularly for things as minor as her attire or public comments. Such scrutiny, she believes, echoes her experiences while a member of the Royal Family, where she often felt unjustly judged.
Royal commentator Ed Coram James speculated on the reasons behind the Sussexes’ separate appearances. He suggested that their brand, once seen as a cohesive unit, began shifting after their infamous interview with Oprah Winfrey. According to James, the interview set off a chain reaction, transforming their image in the public eye and making partnerships with large brands more difficult to secure. The Sussexes’ vocal disputes with both the British Royal Family and some of Meghan’s relatives painted a picture of a couple willing to air grievances publicly. This led to perceptions of them as somewhat confrontational and combative, especially as several of their projects failed to meet expectations.
James suggested that to overcome the challenges surrounding their brand, the Sussexes would need to reposition themselves by focusing on qualities like humility and grace. For now, their individual efforts might help them forge unique identities and eventually enable a reimagined brand if they choose to reunite their public personas down the road. By moving in separate directions for now, they could cultivate distinct, positive reputations that might reshape the public narrative.
Meghan’s latest endeavor, American Riviera Orchid, aims to bring a fresh perspective to home and lifestyle goods. The brand includes kitchen items, cookbooks, preserves, and edible oils, showcasing her interest in wellness and home decor. However, some experts remain skeptical about its potential success, voicing concerns about the public’s readiness to embrace her new business direction.
In an interview on a podcast, Tina Brown did not hesitate to share her skepticism about the Sussexes’ post-royal career choices. Brown pointed out that while Harry naturally thrives in his public role, Meghan has faced challenges in crafting a consistent, successful brand image. According to Brown, Harry’s skills align closely with the expectations of a royal figure, and he reportedly carries a unique charm that suited his previous role in the monarchy well.
When discussing Meghan, Brown offered sharp criticism, stating that her judgment in business matters has been consistently flawed. Brown even asserted that Meghan tends to ignore advice, often choosing to go her own way despite consulting experts. Her comments underscored the challenges Meghan faces in shifting public opinion, a task made more difficult by perceived missteps in her professional decisions.
Over the years, Harry and Meghan’s candid remarks about the Royal Family have made headlines, especially with the release of Harry’s memoir, Spare. The book’s release was reportedly one of the factors behind their eviction from Frogmore Cottage by King Charles. Additionally, Harry’s strained relationship with his brother William is believed to be unresolved, with no plans for reconciliation at this time.
Opinions differ on who bears responsibility for the divide within the family, though Brown suggests that Harry is largely guided by Meghan’s influence. Brown even characterized Harry’s admiration for Meghan as unwavering, describing him as being captivated by her ambition and confidence in the Hollywood scene. According to Brown, this dynamic has shaped many of Harry’s decisions.
Another royal expert, Hugo Vickers, offered insights into Meghan’s tendency to lose supporters. Vickers suggested that her path since joining the Royal Family has been marked by burned bridges, including with notable supporters such as Tina Brown. Initially, many believed Meghan’s presence in the Royal Family could bring a modern, progressive influence, especially given her history of addressing issues at forums like the United Nations. But Vickers implied that she may not have fully grasped the demands of royal duty, which prioritize service over personal ambition.
Despite the turbulent nature of her departure from the UK, Meghan hinted at having more stories to tell. During an interview with The Cut, she revealed that she kept a personal diary during her time in the Royal Family. The existence of this journal has sparked curiosity, as it could contain further insights into her experiences within the monarchy.
In another interview, royal commentator Roya Nikkhah pointed to Meghan’s mention of the journal as a potential signal to the Royal Family. Nikkhah noted that Meghan’s reference to her journal and comments on speaking openly could be perceived as a subtle warning. Should Meghan ever choose to publish a memoir, it could further complicate her relationship with the Royal Family, especially if it revisits past grievances.
While speculation about Meghan’s intentions continues, royal expert Jennie Bond suggests that Meghan may prefer to move forward and leave her royal controversies behind. Bond expressed doubt that Meghan would release a memoir but acknowledged that the journal remains in her possession, potentially holding private reflections from her time as a senior royal. For now, however, Meghan appears focused on building a new chapter in the U.S., seemingly prioritizing a peaceful, forward-looking approach over revisiting past conflicts.