Meghan Markle’s entry into the British royal family was filled with high expectations and hopes for a fresh, modern dynamic. However, some now reflect on whether she fully understood what she was stepping into. This brings to mind Prince William’s earlier concerns, as he reportedly advised Prince Harry to take things slowly, not because of any doubts about their love, but to give Meghan time to grasp the demands of royal life.
Prince William’s caution was informed by his own experience with Catherine (Kate Middleton), who had a decade to observe royal life before committing to it. This “goldfish bowl” effect, as some call it, allowed Kate to decide whether she could handle the relentless scrutiny and limitations that come with being a member of the royal family. Some believe Meghan might have benefitted from a similar period of adjustment. Had she taken more time, she might have realized that the sacrifices required—such as giving up her independence—were too great.
Meghan was, by all accounts, an impressive individual. She was independent, forthright, and had built a successful career while championing her own charitable causes. She had the potential to be a major asset to the modern monarchy, representing a new kind of royal figure—strong, modern, and socially engaged. Yet, the royal institution may not have been prepared to nurture this potential properly. Some argue that Meghan’s strong personality clashed with the traditional, rigid expectations of royal life.
Moreover, stories surfaced that portrayed Meghan as demanding, with reports of early morning emails and high expectations from palace staff. While this might not have been a major issue for the seasoned aides who had worked with difficult personalities before, it seems that cultural and operational differences led to a feeling that Meghan didn’t mesh well with royal life. Despite being given ample resources—a home, staff, patronages, and the prestigious role of Commonwealth Ambassador—she ultimately chose a different path.
Some believe that Meghan had every opportunity to succeed within the royal framework. Her grand wedding, public duties, and visible role in the Commonwealth were all evidence of the family’s effort to integrate her. Yet, it appears that she ultimately decided royal life wasn’t for her. Perhaps she simply wasn’t willing to make the compromises that are part and parcel of such a life.
This has led to mixed feelings. Some argue that the royal family did everything they could to help her succeed. Others feel more time might have allowed Meghan to better assess whether she was suited for the role, possibly avoiding the painful fallout that followed. Ultimately, her decision to step back—along with Prince Harry—marks a major turning point for the monarchy, leaving many to wonder what could have been had circumstances been different.
The ongoing rift between Harry and the royal family, exacerbated by Meghan’s strained relationships with her own relatives, has cast a shadow over what was once a story of hope and promise. It’s clear that this situation was a “bad fit” in the end, as those involved continue to reflect on the misjudgments and missed opportunities.
However, there remains hope, at least from King Charles’ side. Many believe he still has open arms for his younger son, Harry. The future of their relationship remains to be seen, but it’s clear that a resolution will not be unconditional or without the scars of recent events. As for Meghan, her estrangement from almost everyone in her family, save her mother, raises further questions about the complexities of relationships that have been affected by life in the public eye.
Looking back on this chapter, it’s clear that the royal family and Meghan Markle’s journey has been filled with challenges. Whether it’s a tale of missed opportunities, cultural clashes, or just two worlds that didn’t quite align, only time will tell how the monarchy evolves and how future generations reflect on these turbulent years.
