Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has found herself in a peculiar position as her sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, navigates through a difficult period marked by health concerns and media scrutiny.
In the midst of the editing errors controversy involving a photo shared by Kate Middleton, speculation about Meghan Markle’s reaction is rife. The photo in question, showcasing Middleton with her children, was critiqued for its apparent digital manipulation, leading to several news agencies withdrawing it due to concerns over authenticity.
Royal commentators, including Ian Pelham Turner and Christopher Andersen, have weighed in, suggesting that Markle and Prince Harry’s best action would be a respectful silence. Andersen particularly highlighted the complex emotions Markle might be grappling with: empathy for Middleton’s health struggles contrasted against the royal family’s criticized handling of media relations.
“Meghan, in particular, must be incredibly conflicted about all the incoming heat Kate and the royals are taking,” said Andersen, an author familiar with royal affairs, has suggested.
Meghan Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, have previously voiced their struggles with the royal family’s approach to personal crises, particularly about mental health. Markle, in a candid interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, disclosed her battles with suicidal thoughts while serving as a senior royal. She attributed these struggles to the immense pressures of royal life and claimed that the institution ignored her pleas for help.
The Duchess of Sussex’s past experiences may afford her a unique perspective on the challenges currently faced by Middleton, who has also been subjected to intense public scrutiny.
The Princess of Wales’ public appearances have been limited due to her health condition, fueling speculation and concern over her wellbeing. Also, a controversy surrounding the edited photograph released on the UK’s Mother’s Day exacerbated the situation, leading Middleton to apologize for any confusion caused.
The palace’s information management and its interaction with the media have been criticized, with some arguing that a lack of transparency has contributed to public distrust. Andersen pointed out that the secrecy surrounding Middleton’s health has not only fueled speculation but also drawn parallels to the experiences of Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, with the royal press machine.
Despite past tensions, it has been reported that Markle and Prince Harry have extended their well-wishes to Middleton during her recovery.
Royal insiders have expressed hope that the current focus on Middleton’s health and the surrounding media frenzy will subside, allowing the Princess of Wales to recover in peace. The situation has also sparked discussions about the pressures of royal life, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the need for empathy and support within the royal family.
