On the face of it
Meghan Markle, admired worldwide, handles her celebrity status with a grounded approach, not letting it overshadow her personal identity. During an interview with The Cut, Prince Harry revealed an interesting perspective on their photo session, highlighting how Meghan viewed it differently from him.
This insight into their dynamic reveals that despite her fame, Meghan remains connected to her core values and personal identity, not entirely swayed by the glitz and glamour often associated with her public image.
Maternal instincts and model features
Despite gracing numerous magazine covers, Meghan does not consider herself primarily as a model. In a conversation highlighted by Harry, Meghan emphasized her role as a mother over that of a public figure or model.
Harry pointed out that being a mother and a model aren’t mutually exclusive, indicating a unique and eye-opening exchange between the couple. This conversation underscores Meghan’s focus on her family roles, portraying a relatable side to her public persona.
Meghan and her children
In the interview with The Cut, not only Harry but also their children, Archie and Lilibet, played a part. Meghan’s presence as a mother was a central theme, reflecting on her daily life in California and her hands-on approach to parenting.
As a self-proclaimed non-model, she embraces normalcy, picking up her children from school just like any other parent, an aspect The Cut captured, highlighting her dedication to a balanced family life.
The school run in California
Meghan addressed the issue of media attention and its associated stresses, a recurring theme in her public life. She emphasized her priority to protect Archie and Lilibet from the media glare, aiming for their security rather than seeking anonymity.
The potential for abuse, a painful experience for her and other family members, was also a significant concern for Meghan, demonstrating her protective instincts as a mother.
Meghan collects Archie
During the interview, Meghan expressed her reluctance to share her children’s photos with the public, especially considering the racial abuse they’ve faced. She questioned why she should provide images to those who had used hateful language against her children.
This sentiment was contrasted with a heartwarming moment mentioned by The Cut, where Archie enthusiastically embraced her after school, showcasing the close bond within the family.
Snakes and property ladders
Harry and Meghan’s residence in Montecito, an impressive property valued at $14.65 million, was surprisingly out of their initial price range. This revelation challenges the typical perceptions of royal wealth, suggesting that even estranged royals have financial limitations.
This detail adds a layer of relatability to their lives, showing that they make practical considerations just like anyone else.
What’s it like inside Meghan and Harry’s house?
Funding their Montecito home wasn’t an insurmountable challenge, thanks to their lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify, reportedly totaling around $100 million.
These deals facilitated their move and allowed them to create a comfortable living space. The Cut described their home’s interior as “marshmallowy,” a unique descriptor that paints a picture of comfort and luxury, fitting for their new life.
Getting on the wick
The ambiance of their Montecito home is enhanced by a scented Soho House candle, adding a touch of elegance and tranquility. Meghan enjoys “flamenco-inflected guitar” music around the house, hinting at her personal taste and cultural interests.
Despite the hurdles in acquiring their home, it appears to have been a worthwhile endeavor, as suggested by the title of The Cut’s piece, “Meghan of Montecito.” The couple has evidently created a space that reflects their style and preferences, a sanctuary that resonates with their personalities and lifestyle choices.
Worldwide institutions
Both Harry and Meghan have experienced a variety of lush and diverse locations throughout their lives. Harry’s royal duties and military service exposed him to extensive travel and a wide range of environments, from the glamorous to the challenging. Meghan, as an actress, has also experienced the varying facets of showbusiness.
While the industry may not always be as glamorous as perceived, she has likely encountered many of the finer things the world has to offer. Their collective experiences have shaped their perspectives and lifestyles, influencing their choices and preferences in their current life.
Insta ready
The discussion of locations is pivotal, especially considering their significance as ideal backdrops for social media content. This brings us to an intriguing point from The Cut’s article: Meghan is set to launch a new Instagram account.
Stepping away from the shadow of her former royal social media presence, Meghan plans to offer fresh insights into her life on this popular platform. This move indicates a desire to redefine her public image and connect with a broader audience, showing a different side of her life that perhaps has been unseen or overshadowed by her royal status.
A return to social media
Meghan’s revelation about her impending return to Instagram was shared in a manner that seemed straight out of a spy movie, with her eyes described as “alight and devilish.” This announcement, though not entirely unexpected for a celebrity of her stature, is nonetheless significant.
It indicates a willingness to reengage with the public in a more personal and controlled manner. Her return to Instagram will undoubtedly attract immense attention, given her high-profile status and the public’s keen interest in her life.
The actress and the duchess
The interview also shed light on Meghan’s transition from a famous actress to a working royal. Both roles require a degree of public performance, yet they overlap in many ways. Meghan viewed her acting experience as an advantage in navigating the royal family’s strictly defined roles.
This perspective highlights the complexities of her transition and the skills she brought to her royal duties, yet also underscores the challenges she faced in adapting to such a unique and public position.
So many questions but few answers
Despite her acting skills, Meghan found that her natural curiosity often clashed with royal expectations. The British royal family traditionally adheres to a protocol of duty without questioning, a practice that Meghan, identifying as “an American” more than a “black American,” found challenging.
This cultural and personal identity clash contributed to her feeling like an outsider within the royal family and underscored the difficulties she faced in adapting to its longstanding traditions.
How are things with the royal family these days?
Meghan’s feelings of being an outsider raise questions about her potential reconciliation with the royal family and its institutional approach. She mentioned making a concerted effort to forgive, though it’s unclear if there’s been reciprocal outreach from the family.
The events of September 8, 2022, with Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, have since overshadowed these personal dynamics, adding another layer to the ongoing narrative of her relationship with the royal institution.
Queen Elizabeth II RIP
The death of Queen Elizabeth II and the ascension of King Charles III, Meghan’s father-in-law, adds complexity to her position.
Now the daughter-in-law of a reigning monarch, Meghan navigates a unique family dynamic, especially considering her strained relationships with her own family, like her father, Thomas Markle. This new familial connection could potentially further complicate her public and personal identity.
The duke and duchess’ movements
As of this writing, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are in the U.K., with Prince Harry having traveled alone to Balmoral in Scotland while Meghan remained in London.
They are expected to reunite for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral on September 19. This event will undoubtedly be a significant moment for the couple, drawing global attention and possibly impacting their public perception and their relationship with the royal family.
Her new podcast
Meghan has expressed a sense of liberation since stepping back from royal duties, particularly in her ability to speak freely. This is evident in her Archetypes podcast on Spotify, where she explores various themes and narratives.
The podcast has received mixed reviews, but for Meghan, it serves as an essential platform for expressing her views and those of her guests, showcasing a different aspect of her life and thoughts.
What did people make of Archetypes?
The initial response to Meghan’s podcast, particularly the first episode featuring Serena Williams, has been mixed and somewhat negative. Despite the strong interest in Archetypes, there are questions about the podcast’s future direction, its ability to retain listeners, and its place within Harry and Meghan’s broader media engagements with Netflix.
The podcast’s success and impact remain to be seen, as it is a crucial part of their post-royal media strategy.
Harry’s upcoming memoir
In addition to Meghan’s ventures, Harry’s upcoming memoir is garnering attention. As a supportive spouse, Meghan may feature him on her podcast to promote the book. This memoir, detailing Harry’s life, is highly anticipated for its potential candor about his family and marriage.
The couple’s previous public revelations, notably their 2021 interview with Oprah, set a precedent for openness, making the memoir and any associated promotions a subject of intense public and media interest.
The rivalry between Meghan and Kate was a tabloid invention
The rumored “feud” between Meghan and Kate has been a topic of much speculation. Meghan, however, clarified that while they were not best friends, they were certainly not enemies either. She expressed her view of Kate as “a good person,” emphasizing the unnecessary polarization created by public opinion.
Meghan pointed out that admiring one does not necessitate despising the other. This statement highlights the often oversimplified and binary narratives created by the media, overshadowing the more complex realities of their relationship.
A narrative of a hero and a villain
Oprah highlighted the stark contrast in media portrayal of Meghan and Kate, particularly regarding similar behaviors. An example cited by Oprah involved different media reactions to each woman cradling her baby bump – Meghan was criticized, while Kate was praised.
Meghan reflected on the underlying biases and narratives that drove such disparate coverage. She observed a media-driven narrative that thrived on creating heroes and villains, underscoring the challenges she faced in navigating public perception.
The royals isolated Harry financially
When Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020, they expressed a desire for financial independence, indicating a willingness to forego public funding. However, it seems Harry anticipated continued financial support from his family, which eventually ceased.
This decision to seek financial independence was a significant step, underscoring their commitment to forging a new path outside the traditional royal framework.
Remembering Diana
In his interview with Oprah, Harry disclosed that his family had cut him off financially, which came as a significant challenge. Fortunately, he had access to funds left by Princess Diana, which he used to support his family’s transition to a new life.
Harry’s primary concern was securing enough resources for the safety and security of his family, feeling a sense of guidance from his late mother throughout this process.
The Queen wasn’t blindsided by Harry and Meghan leaving
The British media reacted strongly to the news of Harry and Meghan stepping back from the royal family, often framing the narrative as a shock to the Queen.
The Daily Mirror, for example, ran a headline suggesting the Queen was not informed. However, Harry clarified that the Queen was indeed aware of their plans, challenging the narrative of them acting without her knowledge.
All PR spin
Harry emphasized to Oprah that he did not blindside the Queen with his decision, citing his deep respect for her. He speculated that negative headlines suggesting otherwise might have originated from within the royal institution’s senior staff or PR teams, rather than from the royal family members themselves.
This revelation sheds light on the complex dynamics and potential internal conflicts within the institution.
Meghan had important items taken from her
Meghan’s account of her experience with the royal protocols highlighted some of the more peculiar aspects that outsiders might find bizarre. She claimed that upon joining the royal family, she no longer had access to personal documents like her passport, driver’s license, and keys.
This loss of personal documents contributed to a sense of isolation and dependence, emblematic of the unique and often restrictive nature of life within the royal family.
Left feeling isolated
Meghan elaborated on the implications of handing over her personal documents, noting that it significantly limited her autonomy. Despite traveling internationally as a royal, the control over her documents made her feel isolated and dependent.
This restriction, as Meghan pointed out, meant she couldn’t even use common services like calling an Uber, underscoring the loss of normalcy and independence upon joining the royal family.
The Palace actually hosts parties for tabloid journalists
Harry revealed a noteworthy aspect of the relationship between the palace and the media to Oprah. He described an annual palace party for tabloid journalists, suggesting an “invisible contract” that governs the interaction between the royal family and the press.
According to Harry, this arrangement implies that favorable press coverage is contingent upon granting access and hospitality to these journalists, highlighting the intricate and often problematic dynamics between the media and the monarchy.
Reliant on the media image
In discussing this media-royal relationship, Harry called for compassion towards the royal family, given the complexity of their situation. Oprah’s question, “Who is controlling who?” elicited a response from Harry that the institution’s survival depends on media perception.
Meghan added that this creates a challenging construct, illustrating the exhausting and intricate nature of their public life. This dynamic, as revealed by the couple, underscores the interdependence and the often burdensome relationship between the British monarchy and the press.
The Australian tour didn’t go down well
The 1983 Australian royal tour of Princess Diana and Prince Charles was notably captured in “The Crown,” highlighting Charles’ resentment towards Diana for overshadowing him. A similar dynamic played out during Harry and Meghan’s Australian tour, but not due to marital strain. Instead, the tour seemed to change the dynamic within Buckingham Palace.
Harry indicated that Meghan’s success on the tour and her ability to connect with the public may have stirred memories of Diana’s charisma and popularity, which had once overshadowed Charles. This comparison suggested that history was somewhat repeating itself within the royal family, albeit under different circumstances.
Bringing back bad memories
Harry recalled a noticeable shift in the royal family’s attitude towards Meghan following their Australian tour. He suggested that the tour was a turning point where the family first saw Meghan’s exceptional ability in her royal role, evoking memories of Princess Diana’s 1980s tour.
Harry expressed a desire for learning from the past, implying that the family’s response to Meghan’s popularity mirrored the challenges Diana faced decades earlier. This reflection hints at a repeating pattern within the royal family, where the popularity of one member can lead to internal tensions.
Harry feels let down by his father
The state of Harry’s relationship with his father, Prince Charles, has been a subject of intense speculation. In the interview, Harry addressed this, describing the situation as complex and disappointing.
He felt let down by Charles, who, having experienced similar challenges, should have understood Harry’s pain. This disclosure paints a picture of strained familial ties, shaped by shared but unacknowledged experiences of media scrutiny and public pressure.
Hope for healing
Despite the strain, Harry expressed hope for healing his relationship with his father. He acknowledged his enduring love for Charles but also recognized the hurt that had transpired between them.
Harry’s commitment to working on this relationship suggests a deep understanding of its complexities and the challenges that come with reconciling past grievances and misunderstandings. This ongoing effort signifies the delicate balance of personal and public aspects within royal family relationships.
Meghan feels she was silenced
Meghan, known for her outspoken nature, especially on women’s rights, found her voice significantly constrained upon joining the royal family. The royal protocol, which prohibits political expression, clashed with her advocacy background.
In the interview, she lamented the irony of being silenced on issues she had long championed, highlighting the restrictive nature of royal life and its impact on personal expression and advocacy.
No comment
When Oprah asked if Meghan had chosen silence or was forced into it, Meghan confirmed it was the latter. From the beginning of her relationship with Harry, she was instructed to refrain from commenting publicly, a directive extended to her friends and family.
This enforced silence represented a significant shift from her previous life as an outspoken actress and advocate, illustrating the tension between her personal identity and the expectations of royal life.
The Palace didn’t want Archie to have a title
The issue of Archie’s title became a point of contention, contrary to reports that it was Harry and Meghan’s choice not to have a title for him. Meghan clarified that the decision was not theirs and expressed concern over the implications of Archie not having a prince title, particularly regarding his security protection.
She also noted the troubling implication of the first mixed-race member of the royal family not receiving a title, highlighting the nuanced complexities surrounding race, title, and tradition within the royal family.
A sense of separation
Meghan addressed concerns about Archie’s lack of a royal title, emphasizing that the decision was not in their hands. Her primary worry was the potential lack of security protection due to his non-princely status.
Additionally, Meghan expressed distress over the racial implications of Archie, as the first member of color in the royal family, not receiving a title consistent with other royal grandchildren, suggesting underlying issues of race and tradition in royal protocol.
No comment
When Oprah asked if Meghan had chosen silence or was forced into it, Meghan confirmed it was the latter. From the beginning of her relationship with Harry, she was instructed to refrain from commenting publicly, a directive extended to her friends and family.
This enforced silence represented a significant shift from her previous life as an outspoken actress and advocate, illustrating the tension between her personal identity and the expectations of royal life.
The Palace didn’t want Archie to have a title
The issue of Archie’s title became a point of contention, contrary to reports that it was Harry and Meghan’s choice not to have a title for him. Meghan clarified that the decision was not theirs and expressed concern over the implications of Archie not having a prince title, particularly regarding his security protection.
She also noted the troubling implication of the first mixed-race member of the royal family not receiving a title, highlighting the nuanced complexities surrounding race, title, and tradition within the royal family.
A sense of separation
Meghan addressed concerns about Archie’s lack of a royal title, emphasizing that the decision was not in their hands. Her primary worry was the potential lack of security protection due to his non-princely status.
Additionally, Meghan expressed distress over the racial implications of Archie, as the first member of color in the royal family, not receiving a title consistent with other royal grandchildren, suggesting underlying issues of race and tradition in royal protocol.
Kate made Meghan cry, not the other way around
Contrary to widespread media reports, Meghan revealed that it was Kate who had upset her, not the other way around, during a wedding dress fitting. She clarified that Kate had apologized and they had resolved the issue.
Meghan’s account challenged the media narrative and shed light on the complexities of their relationship, marked by misunderstandings and subsequent reconciliation.
A false media narrative
Meghan addressed the incident with Kate, emphasizing that there was no confrontation and that she harbored no ill will following Kate’s apology. What troubled her more was the palace’s failure to correct the false narrative that she had caused the upset.
This lack of support from the institution in setting the record straight added to the challenges Meghan faced in adjusting to her role within the royal family, where public perception and media narratives play a significant role.
Meghan received death threats
Facing death threats is an unfortunate reality for members of the royal family. Meghan Markle revealed that upon her marriage to Prince Harry, she received numerous threats, many racially motivated. What shocked her more than the threats themselves was the Palace’s reaction, or lack thereof, to her safety concerns.
This lack of response from the institution she had joined was not only alarming but also highlighted the challenges she faced as a newcomer to royal life, especially as a person of color.
Please keep Harry safe
Meghan’s fear for her family’s safety became particularly acute when discussing protection for Harry and Archie. She recounted writing a letter to the royal family, highlighting the death threats and racist propaganda they faced, and pleaded for the security of her husband.
Despite her appeals, the Palace decided to withdraw Harry’s security, a move that left the family feeling exposed and vulnerable at a time when they needed protection the most. This decision by the Palace was a significant turning point, further alienating Meghan and Harry from the royal institution.
Harry and William need “space”
The relationship between Harry and his brother William, now the Prince of Wales, was a topic of much speculation after Harry stepped back from royal duties. Harry described their relationship as having “space” at the moment, suggesting a current distance between them.
He expressed hope for healing over time, indicating that their bond as brothers, despite current strains, is underpinned by a shared history and deep affection.
We’ve been through hell
Harry spoke affectionately of his brother William, emphasizing their close bond despite recent challenges. He acknowledged that they had been through difficult times together, particularly the tragic loss of their mother, Princess Diana, which deeply affected both of them.
Despite this shared experience, Harry noted that they are now on different paths, suggesting diverging approaches to their roles and lives.
Tyler Perry got involved
Tyler Perry’s role in supporting Harry and Meghan during a challenging time was a surprising revelation. After losing royal security and facing ongoing threats, Perry provided them with a house and security in southern California.
This act of kindness offered them a safe haven and time to plan their next steps. The connection to Oprah, a close friend of Perry’s, added an interesting layer to the story, suggesting a network of support outside the royal sphere.
A generous offer
Meghan and Harry’s stay at Tyler Perry’s house, complete with security, was a crucial respite for them. This gesture from Perry allowed them to regroup and plan their future away from the intense scrutiny they faced.
Oprah’s potential involvement or awareness of this arrangement highlighted the couple’s reliance on friendships and connections outside the royal family for support during this transitional period.
Meghan suffered mental health issues
Meghan’s mental health struggles after joining the royal family mirror those faced by Princess Diana. Despite her pleas for help, Meghan claimed the Palace denied her assistance, leaving her to rely solely on Harry for support.
This lack of institutional support for her mental health needs underscores a serious issue within the royal family regarding the well-being of its members and the rigid structures that may prevent them from seeking help.
Nothing we can do
Meghan’s attempt to seek professional help for her mental health challenges was reportedly rebuffed by the Palace. She was told that seeking help would not be good for the institution’s image.
This response, acknowledging her struggles but denying assistance, left her without the necessary resources to cope, highlighting a disconnect between the royal family’s public image and the personal well-being of its members.
Archie’s skin color was discussed
The conversation about Archie’s skin color before his birth was a deeply troubling revelation from Meghan and Harry. Meghan recounted discussions within the royal family about how dark Archie’s skin might be, a concern that shocked both her and Harry.
This conversation pointed to underlying issues of race within the royal family and added a complex layer to the couple’s experience as senior royals.
An unnamed individual
Harry’s refusal to reveal who made the comments about Archie’s skin color was a notable aspect of the interview. He maintained his decision to keep this conversation private, indicating the sensitivity and potential repercussions of disclosing the identity.
Oprah later clarified that the Queen and Prince Philip were not involved in these discussions, as per her private conversations with the couple, yet the identity of the individual remains unknown, adding to the intrigue and complexity of the situation.
Charles stopped taking Harry’s calls
Harry’s revelation about his deteriorating relationship with his father, Prince Charles, was a poignant moment in the interview. He disclosed that after stepping back from royal duties, his father stopped answering his calls, highlighting a significant rift in their relationship.
Harry described having a few conversations with both his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, and his father before this communication breakdown occurred. This detail underscores the complexity and depth of the challenges Harry faced within the royal family, particularly in the context of his decision to step back.
Taking matters into their own hands
When Oprah inquired about the reasons for this breakdown in communication, Harry explained that he had to take control of the situation for the sake of his mental health, as well as that of his wife and son.
It was a decision driven by necessity rather than desire, reflecting the depth of the issues they faced. Despite the initial cessation of communication, Charles eventually began taking his calls again, suggesting a possible thawing in their strained relationship.
The new baby is a girl
During the interview, Meghan’s pregnancy was a topic of joy and anticipation. When Harry joined Meghan, they happily revealed they were expecting a girl. Harry expressed his gratitude, stating how fortunate he felt to have both a son and a daughter, which to him was the perfect family.
This moment was particularly poignant considering the couple’s previous experience with miscarriage, adding a layer of profound gratitude and relief to their announcement.
A complete family
The interview also touched on the couple’s previous heartbreak, with Meghan having suffered a miscarriage. Harry’s comment about now having their complete family, including their two dogs, reflected a sense of fulfillment and closure.
The couple’s decision to limit their family to two children was a candid revelation, with Meghan affirming to Oprah that “two is it,” indicating a sense of contentment with their family dynamic.
Meghan had no bad words for the Queen
Meghan took the opportunity during the interview to clarify her feelings towards the Queen, distinguishing between the royal family as individuals and the institution they represent. She emphasized that her experience with the Queen had always been positive, highlighting the Queen’s kindness towards her.
This distinction was crucial for Meghan, as it separated her personal interactions with family members from the broader challenges she faced within the institutional framework of the monarchy.
Personal sympathy
The interview sparked considerable media discussion about the implications for Harry’s relationship with the Queen. Royal historian Robert Lacey noted the Queen’s dual role as both the head of the institution and Harry’s grandmother, suggesting a complex interplay between her personal sympathies and the demands of her position.
This ambivalence was evident in her interactions with Harry, as she navigated her dual responsibilities.
Harry and Meghan secretly got married early
Harry and Meghan shared a surprising detail about their wedding, revealing that they had held a private ceremony before the official televised event. Meghan described calling the Archbishop to express their desire for a personal union, separate from the public spectacle.
This private commitment, although not legally binding, was deeply meaningful to them, with the vows from this ceremony displayed in their home, reflecting the personal nature of their relationship.
Was it legal?
Following the revelation of their private ceremony, there was media scrutiny about its legal status. Reverend Canon Giles Fraser clarified that their official wedding took place at Windsor, suggesting the private ceremony was more symbolic than legal.
Despite this, the couple holds their private vows in high regard, emphasizing the personal significance of their commitment to each other, separate from the public spectacle of their royal wedding.
Harry thinks his family are “trapped”
Despite the challenges, Harry expressed a desire to mend his relationships within the royal family. He shared his realization of being “trapped” within the institution, a sentiment he believes is shared by his father and brother.
This acknowledgment of his own experience and his empathy for his family’s situation indicate Harry’s understanding of the constraints of royal life and his hope for a better understanding and reconciliation.
Harry wants to patch things up
Harry continued, expressing compassion for his family, who he perceives as unable to leave their roles within the monarchy. He described a mindset within the family of accepting the status quo as unchangeable, a mentality he and Meghan have challenged by stepping back.
Harry’s comments suggest a deep desire to not only find personal freedom but also to foster change and understanding within the royal family, hoping to bridge the gaps created by their departure.
