Meghan Markle’s time as a working royal came with its challenges. Veteran royal correspondent Simon Vigar highlights these in his new book, ‘The Four Wives of Windsor.’ Vigar suggests a ‘culture clash’ between Markle and palace aides contributed to the rocky tenure.
Vigar, one of Britain’s longest-serving royal correspondents, shares his perspective on the tensions between Markle and the palace. Neither Kensington Palace nor the Duke and Duchess of Sussex commented on the book when asked by Fox News Digital.
During the couple’s 2018 royal tour, Vigar observed Markle’s strong connection with the public. This tour covered Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Tonga, where she was seen as natural with the crowds. Despite the positive public reception, internal struggles existed.
“There was a culture clash there,” Vigar noted. “Egos got in the way from both sides.”
Markle, an American actress known for her role in ‘Suits,’ became the Duchess of Sussex in 2018 after marrying Prince Harry. Her past life involved a highly organized public presence, which clashed with the less controlled environment of royal duties. This contrast is emphasized in Vigar’s work, noting that Meghan faced difficulties adjusting to the expectations of the royal family.
Vigar details an incident at Suva Market in Fiji during the tour. Although scheduled to interact with women’s economic empowerment vendors, the visit ended abruptly. Different narratives were provided for this change, including security issues, yet others refuted these claims.
Meghan’s first pregnancy was publicly announced during the tour. Reports linked her departure from Suva Market to crowd-related security concerns. However, Vigar questions this explanation, pointing out inconsistencies in the official stance.
The book discusses Meghan’s adaptation to the royal setting, drawing comparisons to other royal family members. Vigar highlights the uniqueness of Meghan’s position as an American marrying into the upper-class British institution.
Allegations of tough working conditions and staff treatment complaints surfaced post-tenure. When in 2021 former aide Jason Knauf filed a bullying complaint against Meghan, the Sussexes’ representatives dismissed them as attacks on her character.
Vigar argues that Meghan’s lack of familiarity with royal traditions and expectations played a role. The discrepancy between Meghan’s Hollywood experience and royal family life contributed to the friction.
Reports state that several palace staff departed during their time with Harry and Meghan. The Duchess denies any wrongdoing related to these accusations.
Reflecting on the couple’s decision to step back from their roles in 2020, Vigar highlights that both Harry and Meghan felt unsupported by the royal structure. They now live in California with their children, Princes Archie and Princess Lilibet.