Meghan Markle’s Challenges as a Working Royal Explored

Meghan Markle’s time as a working royal may have faced difficulties due to a ‘culture clash’ with palace staff. Veteran royal correspondent Simon Vigar addresses these issues in his new book, “The Four Wives of Windsor.” Kensington Palace has declined to comment on the book, and representatives for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have stated they have no comment.

Vigar discussed how egos interfered on both sides during Markle’s tenure, leading to avoidable conflicts. He noted that Markle expected more control over public events—control often found in Hollywood yet lacking in royal duties. The narrative that the British media always opposed Harry and Meghan isn’t commonly recognized among many correspondents.

During her first engagement in Nottingham, Markle impressed crowds with her natural charisma, which adds sadness to her departure from royal duties. The couple’s 2018 tour of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Tonga was successful, though palace press officers later faced challenges in managing stories and narratives emerging from the tour.

As an American actress, Markle was used to managing her public appearances, and the sudden exposure during royal tours presented significant adjustments. An anonymous staffer expressed that Meghan realized the role wasn’t glamorous and required hard work, which was contrary to her expectations and previous experiences.

During the tour in Fiji, Meghan’s visit to Suva Market for an engagement promoting women’s economic empowerment was unexpectedly shortened. Conflicting reasons were given; Team Sussex cited security issues, while others disagreed. Despite large crowds and anticipation, Meghan’s visit ended quickly without meeting all individuals planned. Observers noted abrupt changes in the mood, attributing it to various possibilities, including mismanagement or health concerns.

Meghan’s first pregnancy was announced in October 2018, leading to intense scrutiny during the overseas tour amid an already demanding schedule. Reports from the time suggest her unfamiliarity with royal family culture further complicated engagements.

Allegations of bullying surfaced in 2018, leading to formal complaints by palace staff. Meghan denied these claims, arguing they were attacks on her character. Before a televised interview with Oprah Winfrey, further allegations emerged, intensifying media scrutiny.

Vigar argues that Meghan married into an institution with specific expectations—an environment different from the controlled public image in Hollywood. The small press team at Kensington Palace lacks the robust management found at film premieres, leading to complex dynamics in the royal family’s media engagement.

Royal aides highlighted expectations that working royals must perform public engagements despite feeling unwell. Vigar concluded that the lifestyle involves duties far removed from Hollywood glamour, noting the exits of palace employees during Markle’s time as a royal.

Meghan has denied mistreating staff, though several former aides claimed her behavior contributed to workplace departures. There have been disputes over whether the Kensington Palace press team worked against Meghan, with Vigar and others defending the team’s efforts to support her.

Harry and Meghan stepped down from senior royal duties in 2020, relocating to California with their children. They continue to critique the British tabloid press and have expressed dissatisfaction with the support received from the royal institution.

Stephanie Nolasco works as an Entertainment Reporter for Fox News Digital.