When Meghan Markle joined the British royal family, her transition was marked by scrutiny over how she navigated royal protocols and traditions. Unlike Catherine, Princess of Wales, who had years of preparation and a different societal upbringing, Meghan faced unique challenges that underscored the complexities of adjusting to royal life.
Meghan, an American actress with a modern outlook, entered the royal family without the familiarity of British aristocratic customs. Growing up in Los Angeles and building a career in Hollywood, Meghan was accustomed to self-determination and less hierarchical structures. In contrast, Catherine Middleton had years of exposure to royal customs during her decade-long courtship with Prince William. Catherine’s upbringing in the UK and her family’s respect for traditional British values provided her with a foundation that eased her integration into royal life.
Meghan often struggled with the formality embedded in royal traditions. Reports highlighted her discomfort with curtsying protocols, rigid dress codes, and rules about interacting with the public. One significant moment occurred during Meghan’s first Christmas at Sandringham, where she reportedly found the highly regimented schedules and customs overwhelming. Catherine, however, had already acclimated to these traditions by the time she officially joined the royal family, having attended several events with William’s family beforehand.
Both Meghan and Catherine faced intense media scrutiny, but the tone and focus of that attention differed significantly. Catherine’s early years were marked by nicknames like "Waity Katie," referencing her long relationship with William before their engagement. While this was challenging, the criticism often centered on her patience and eventual readiness for royal life.
Meghan’s experience, however, involved heightened racial undertones and criticism of her American roots. From accusations of breaking royal protocol, such as closing her own car door, to her choice of nail polish colors, Meghan was often portrayed as an outsider who disregarded tradition. This was in stark contrast to Catherine, who was lauded for her seamless adherence to royal expectations.
Meghan’s struggles with protocol often clashed with her desire for individuality. For instance, she was criticized for her modern maternity wardrobe and her decision to forgo the traditional post-birth photos outside the hospital. Catherine, on the other hand, embraced these expectations, appearing polished and poised for the same photos after each of her children’s births.
Meghan expressed frustration with the “stiff upper lip” mentality that discouraged open emotional expression. In her interview with Oprah Winfrey, she revealed how isolating the lack of mental health support felt. Catherine, while also experiencing pressure, worked within the system to address issues like mental health through her Heads Together initiative, which aligned with the royal family’s ethos.
While Meghan’s difficulties showcased the challenges of modernizing royal traditions, Catherine’s steady integration highlighted the advantages of gradual preparation and familiarity with the royal institution. Meghan’s departure from senior royal duties in 2020 reflected her desire for a more independent life, contrasting with Catherine’s commitment to upholding traditional royal roles.
Their experiences illustrate the complexities of adapting to one of the most visible and tradition-bound institutions in the world. Meghan’s challenges and Catherine’s gradual adaptation underscore how personal backgrounds and societal expectations can shape royal journeys in profoundly different ways.
