Since marrying Prince Harry in 2018, Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has been at the center of significant media scrutiny. Her public appearances and behavior have consistently drawn both praise and criticism, with some claiming that her actions have shaken the traditions of the British royal family. This ongoing debate about Meghan's public image raises the question: is the criticism of her appearance and behavior truly a major issue, or is it amplified by the media and cultural differences?
One of the most persistent critiques aimed at Meghan revolves around her choice of fashion and how she presents herself. Royal watchers have pointed out that she has occasionally broken royal protocol, such as opting for off-the-shoulder dresses or wearing darker nail polish—choices that have been viewed as too modern for a member of the royal family. While these may seem like minor infractions, they stand out in a system steeped in tradition. Critics argue that Meghan’s fashion choices signal a disregard for royal customs, whereas her supporters see it as a sign of her individuality and modern influence.
Meghan's relationship with the press has also been a source of contention. After her and Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020, dubbed "Megxit," the couple expressed dissatisfaction with the British tabloid press, accusing them of racial bias and unfair targeting. This sparked heated debates, with some agreeing that Meghan had been unfairly treated, while others believed that she had chosen to court media attention, making her complaints seem hypocritical. Her legal battles with various media outlets, particularly in defense of her privacy, have only added to the polarizing views surrounding her.
Beyond her appearance, Meghan's behavior has also been subject to critique, with accusations of a clash between her modern, independent approach and the traditions of the royal family. Critics point to reports of Meghan’s demanding nature and alleged clashes with palace staff as evidence of her failure to adapt to royal life. A particularly prominent story involved claims of bullying lodged against Meghan by former staff members, which gained significant media attention in 2021. While Meghan has denied these allegations, they have added fuel to the narrative that she was not a good fit for the royal institution.
Her relationship with other members of the royal family has also been scrutinized. Speculation about tension between Meghan and her sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, as well as Prince William, has dominated tabloids for years. Critics argue that Meghan’s public openness about her struggles with royal life, as seen in interviews like the Oprah Winfrey interview, has damaged the monarchy’s image, while others believe she is justified in speaking out about her personal challenges and mental health struggles.
While Meghan's critics argue that her public appearance and behavior are a major issue, it is essential to acknowledge the role the media plays in shaping perceptions. The global fascination with the British monarchy, combined with Meghan’s biracial identity and American background, has intensified coverage around her. Some believe the disproportionate media attention and cultural differences contribute to the heightened criticism she faces.
The criticism of Meghan Markle’s public appearance and behavior remains a significant talking point, but whether it constitutes a major issue largely depends on one's perspective. For some, her actions represent a challenge to royal tradition, while for others, they reflect a necessary modernization of an age-old institution. The polarized debate continues, fueled by both media coverage and deeply ingrained societal views.
