A Star is Born
Meghan Markle’s upbringing in California was worlds apart from the formal and traditional environment of the British royal family. Raised under the sunny skies of Los Angeles, her early years were marked by a more relaxed and liberating atmosphere, contrasting sharply with her husband’s royal upbringing.
Meghan Markle was born as Rachel Meghan Markle, a name that interestingly paralleled her future acting role. Growing up in Los Angeles, her early years were far removed from the royal life she would eventually enter, offering a stark contrast to the traditions and formalities she would later embrace.
Early Years
The British royal family is often in the spotlight for their complex relationships and high-profile scandals. Markle’s own background, growing up in a dynamic and sometimes challenging environment, might have inadvertently prepared her for the ups and downs she would face within the royal family.
Meghan’s childhood was marked by her parents’ divorce when she was just six years old, leading her to live primarily with her mother, Doria Ragland. Doria’s profession as a social worker and yoga instructor profoundly influenced Meghan, shaping her values and interests from a young age.
Daddy’s Girl
Following her parents’ separation, Meghan lived with her mother, developing a strong bond with her. Her father, Thomas Markle, has since become a controversial figure, frequently making headlines for his tumultuous relationship with Meghan and his interactions with the media.
Despite the current strained relationship between Meghan and her father, Thomas Markle, old photos on Meghan’s now-deleted Instagram account depicted a time when they shared happier moments. These images showed a father-daughter bond that once seemed close and joyful.
Yoga Baby
Long before it became a mainstream practice, Meghan Markle embraced yoga as part of her lifestyle. Starting at the young age of 7, yoga has been a consistent presence in her life, aiding her physical and emotional well-being, a passion she likely inherited from her yoga instructor mother.
Meghan’s introduction to yoga came early, thanks to her mother’s profession as a yoga instructor. Initially resistant as a child, Meghan embraced the practice more fully in college, finding it beneficial for her physical and mental well-being, as she recounted to Best Health Magazine.
TV Toddler
Meghan’s ease and charisma in front of the camera were evident early on, making her transition to a public figure as a member of the royal family seem like a natural progression. Her on-screen presence hinted at her potential to handle life under the public eye with grace.
Meghan’s comfort in front of the camera developed early, influenced by her father’s career as a lighting director. She often accompanied him on sets, gaining early exposure to the entertainment industry, although not all content was suitable for a young child.
Age Appropriate
Despite her comfort on TV sets from a young age, Meghan sometimes found herself feeling out of place, especially when the content her father, a lighting director, was working on was a bit too mature for her young mind.
Meghan attended Immaculate Heart High School, a private Catholic girls’ school in Los Angeles. This educational environment was markedly different from the Hollywood sets she visited with her father, providing her with a diverse range of experiences and lessons.
Working Girl
From her early years, Meghan was vocal about women’s rights and gender equality. She harbored ambitions of charting her own path and becoming a self-reliant, empowered woman, values that she has continued to advocate for.
Meghan’s ambition and drive were evident from an early age. As she told Elle UK magazine, she always aspired to be a woman defined by her work and achievements, rather than a life of leisure – a mindset that would propel her into various successful endeavors.
Clever Clogs
Meghan Markle is more than just a royal or an actress; she is also highly intelligent. Her academic pursuits and eloquent speeches reflect her intellect, debunking any stereotypes of her being just another pretty face.
Meghan’s academic journey at Northwestern University reflected her multifaceted talents. Majoring in both Theater and International Relations, she balanced her artistic passions with a keen interest in global affairs, hinting at the diverse roles she would play in her future.
Bright Lights
Although Meghan was drawn to acting and theater, she initially hesitated to pursue it as a career. Growing up in L.A., where entering the acting industry is almost a norm, she was wary of falling into a cliché and sought to carve her own unique path.
While theater remained a passion for Meghan, she also pursued a more academic track, perhaps foreseeing the diverse roles she would play in her future. Her choice to study International Relations alongside Theater indicated her desire for a well-rounded education.
Sister Sister
Before marrying into the British royal family, Meghan was already accustomed to being part of prestigious groups. In college, she joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, indicating her affinity for being associated with notable and elite circles, whether by chance or destiny.
Foodie Fun
College life for Meghan Markle wasn’t just about academic excellence and social endeavors like sorority life; it also sparked her interest in gastronomy. She developed a passion for food, which later became a significant aspect of her lifestyle and public persona.
Meghan’s relatability shone through in her fondness for the 24-hour Burger King near her college dorms. This preference, shared with many students, highlighted a down-to-earth side to the future Duchess.
Hard Knock Life
Before her rise to fame, Meghan Markle experienced the typical struggles of an aspiring actress. She paid her dues, taking various roles and navigating the challenges of a competitive industry, showing dedication and resilience.
Meghan initially thought acting would come easily to her, especially after landing her first audition. However, the reality of the industry’s competitiveness soon set in, teaching her the challenges of building a career in entertainment.
President Meghan
During the early stages of her acting career, Meghan considered alternative career paths in case acting didn’t pan out. She pondered over different professions, though becoming a princess likely wasn’t on her list of alternative careers at the time.
In an interesting twist, Meghan once considered a career in politics, even completing an internship at the U.S. Embassy in Argentina. The possibility of having a President Markle, who might have also become a princess, presents a fascinating “what if” scenario.
Princess Penmanship
Meghan’s journey to success included working various side jobs while attending auditions. These side gigs were essential for her to support herself financially as she worked tirelessly to establish her career in acting.
Meghan’s artistic talents extended beyond acting; she was also skilled in calligraphy. Her proficiency in this art form led her to create wedding invitations for celebrities like Robin Thicke and Paula Patton, showcasing her diverse skill set.
Book Babe
Meghan’s pursuit of an acting career included some unexpected roles, showcasing her versatility and willingness to take on diverse challenges as she climbed the ladder of success in the entertainment industry.
Meghan’s unique job history included working as a bookbinder, a craft involving creating and teaching about book construction. This role revealed her appreciation for books and the artistry involved in their creation.
Blushing Bride
Meghan Markle’s introduction to the world as Prince Harry’s bride was a moment many will remember, but not everyone knows that this wasn’t her first walk down the aisle. Prior to joining the British royal family, she had been married, showcasing a life rich with diverse personal experiences.
Before her royal marriage, Meghan was previously wed to producer Trevor Engelson. Their marriage, which lasted from 2004 to 2013, eventually ended, marking a significant chapter in her life before she entered the global spotlight.
Royal Deal
As Meghan Markle embarked on her acting career, she took on various roles, some less glamorous than others. One such job was as a ‘briefcase girl’ on the TV show “Deal or No Deal.” These roles, though not always enjoyable, were stepping stones in her journey to becoming a successful actress.
On “Deal or No Deal,” Meghan was assigned the “ill-fated” number 26 briefcase, often overlooked by contestants. She recounted the discomfort of standing in high heels, waiting for her number to be chosen, a far cry from her future royal duties.
Showbiz Moves
Meghan Markle’s career in acting wasn’t limited to small or low-budget roles. She quickly started making her mark in the industry, landing roles in notable films like “Horrible Bosses,” “Get Him to the Greek,” “Remember Me,” and “The Candidate.” Her talent and determination were beginning to pay off.
Meghan’s acting career reached new heights with her role in “Suits.” This opportunity not only elevated her status in the acting world but also set the stage for her eventual entry into the British royal family.
Oh Canada
Meghan Markle’s rise to fame was significantly boosted by her role as Rachel Zane in the popular TV series “Suits.” Interestingly, her character’s name mirrored her own birth name, Rachel, adding a personal touch to her breakout role.
Moving to Toronto for “Suits” filming, Meghan spent a significant part of the year in Canada. She embraced her time there, becoming an “adopted Canuck” and integrating into the local culture and community.
Settling In
Meghan’s relocation to Canada for “Suits” led to more than just career success. She embraced her new environment, settling comfortably into a home in Seaton Village. Her time in Canada also saw her integrating into the elite social circles, mingling with the country’s top celebrities.
In Canada, Meghan formed connections with notable figures, possibly giving her a glimpse into the life of a high-profile individual. This experience might have provided a taste of what was to come in her future royal life.
Cast Club
Beyond her professional accomplishments on “Suits,” Meghan also formed strong bonds with her co-stars. These relationships went beyond mere work acquaintances, reflecting her ability to connect genuinely with those around her.
Meghan’s close friendships with her “Suits” co-stars were a testament to her ability to form strong bonds. Their shared experiences, including vacations and late-night parties, highlighted the camaraderie they shared off-screen.
Mad Markle
Despite her success and busy schedule, Meghan Markle enjoyed the same simple pleasures as many of us, including watching television. Her regular viewer status, despite being a celebrated actress, made her relatable to fans around the world.
Even amidst her busy acting career, Meghan enjoyed watching TV shows like “Mad Men.” Her love for television, even as a successful actress, made her relatable to fans and showed that she shared common interests with the public.
Keeping Her Head
Achieving success didn’t make Meghan forget her roots or the hard work that got her there. She remained grounded and thankful for her opportunities, especially in an industry where women often face the challenge of being taken seriously beyond their physical appearance.
Meghan often spoke about the challenges she faced as a struggling actress, grateful for the depth and complexity given to her “Suits” character. Her appreciation for being portrayed as more than just a pretty face was a significant aspect of her acting journey.
Vitamin Queen
Meghan’s love for food is well-known, but her interests extend beyond just indulgence. She has a balanced approach, valuing both the taste and nutritional aspects of food, indicating her broader interest in health and wellness.
Meghan’s passion for food extended beyond taste; she was also a proponent of healthy eating. Her vocal admiration for her Vitamix blender highlighted her focus on nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Wine Wonder
Alongside her passion for food and health, Meghan also has an appreciation for finer things, including a fondness for wine. Her varied interests paint a picture of a woman with diverse tastes and a penchant for enjoying life’s luxuries.
Meghan Markle’s love for red wine extends beyond mere enjoyment; it even inspired the name of her now-defunct lifestyle blog, “The Tig,” named after her favorite wine, Tignanello. Her appreciation for this particular wine reflects not only her taste but also her knack for integrating personal passions into her professional endeavors.
Fashion Fan
Meghan Markle’s journey is a testament to her multi-talented nature. From acting to activism, calligraphy to culinary interests, and even fashion, she has showcased her diverse skill set, leaving many wondering if there’s anything she can’t do.
Meghan’s talents aren’t limited to acting and philanthropy; she also has a flair for fashion design. Often designing her own clothes, she brings a unique sense of style and personal touch to her outfits, showcasing her multifaceted abilities and leaving many in awe of her diverse skill set.
The Price is Reit
Meghan’s flair and sense of style didn’t go unnoticed. Her keen fashion sense led to a collaboration with Canadian clothing brand Reitmans, where she served as a brand ambassador and style expert, further cementing her influence in the fashion world.
In 2016, Meghan expanded her creative talents into the fashion industry, collaborating with a style brand to launch her own clothing line. This venture highlighted her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit, adding yet another feather to her cap of numerous talents.
Dog Lover
Balancing a bustling career with a vibrant social life is no small feat, yet Meghan managed to do so effortlessly. Her ability to maintain an active social circle while navigating the complexities of dating, especially someone of royal stature, is remarkable.
Beyond her human connections, Meghan has a profound love for dogs. She adopted two rescue dogs, a Labrador-shepherd mix named Bogart and a beagle named Guy, demonstrating her compassion and commitment to animal welfare. Balancing her busy life while caring for her pets is just another example of her multifaceted personality.
Celeb Pals
Meghan’s charisma and charm have led to numerous friendships with high-profile personalities, extending beyond her “Suits” co-stars. These connections highlight her ability to engage and bond with people from various walks of life.
Meghan’s circle of friends includes high-profile celebrities like Serena Williams and Priyanka Chopra. She formed a bond with Williams at a celebrity sports event and connected with Chopra at an industry dinner. Her friendships with these talented women highlight her ability to forge strong relationships across different spheres.
Suitable Suitors
Before her fairytale wedding with Prince Harry, Meghan had previously been married, reflecting a life filled with different chapters and experiences before she became a global icon as a member of the British royal family.
Before her royal romance, Meghan caught the attention of several celebrities, including British footballer Ashley Cole. However, she reportedly declined his advances, aware of his reputation. Her discerning choice reflects her values and the importance she places on personal integrity in relationships.
Soul Mate
Meghan’s circle of friends and acquaintances included many celebrities and notable figures, but her most famous relationship is undoubtedly with Prince Harry. Their marriage catapulted her into one of the world’s most prominent royal families.
Amidst her bustling life, there’s one relationship that Meghan treasures above all – her bond with her long-time best friend. This friendship has been a constant through the various phases of her life, offering support and companionship through her journey from actress to Duchess.
Body Positivity
Upon joining the royal family, Meghan’s fashion style evolved to align more with the traditional and conservative dress code expected of royals. This shift marked a significant change from her previous, more varied sartorial choices.
Meghan’s pre-royal Instagram account showcased her as an advocate for body positivity, a stark contrast to her more conservative royal wardrobe. Her earlier posts celebrated body confidence and self-expression, revealing another facet of her personality.
Vacay Vamps
Meghan’s life before royalty, as depicted on her Instagram, was quite different from her current royal duties. Her pre-royal life, filled with more personal freedoms and less protocol, offers a stark contrast to her current role within the monarchy.
Her Instagram account once painted a picture of a glamorous lifestyle, filled with vacation snapshots, often featuring her best friend Jessica Mulroney. Their adventures together reflected Meghan’s love for travel and experiencing the finer things in life.
Party Time
Contrary to typical celebrity lifestyles filled with extravagant parties and social events, Meghan’s life, especially post-royalty, has been more subdued and focused on her duties and philanthropic work, showcasing a different side to celebrity life.
Meghan’s previous social media presence illustrated her enjoyment of a vibrant social life, attending events and embracing the luxuries of her then-lifestyle. This glimpse into her past reveals a contrast to the more reserved and formal role she now holds as a member of the royal family.
Looking to the Future
Meghan Markle’s life journey is a story of ambition, adaptability, and success. Her diverse career achievements, fulfilling social life, and dedication to making a positive impact demonstrate her multifaceted personality and commitment to various causes.
Since marrying Prince Harry, Meghan’s life has undergone significant changes, with increased media scrutiny and challenges. Despite these obstacles, she continues to demonstrate resilience and grace, embodying the qualities of a modern princess and showcasing the depth of her character beyond the headlines.
