Meghan Markle is making a surprising return to acting after stepping away from her career in 2017, with reports indicating approximately seven years since her last role. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, was spotted on set in Pasadena, California, filming for Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming production “Close Personal Friends.”
The Sun broke the news on Wednesday, November 5, revealing that Markle is portraying herself in a cameo role alongside an ensemble cast that includes Brie Larson, Lily Collins, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding. The project marks a significant shift for the former “Suits” star, who left Hollywood entirely when she became engaged to Prince Harry.
According to a source who spoke to People, “Meghan was on the set today. She seemed very relaxed and happy. She introduced herself to everyone and was very sweet and down-to-earth.” The insider clarified that Markle has a small part in the film, suggesting this represents a gentle reentry into the entertainment industry rather than a full-scale comeback.
The film is being directed by Jason Orley, known for his 2019 coming-of-age feature starring Pete Davidson. Production began in London in September before moving to California, where Markle joined the cast. The project has maintained tight security around her involvement, with crew members reportedly sworn to secrecy about her participation.
Markle’s acting career began with her breakthrough role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama “Suits,” which premiered on USA Network in 2011. She quit the series and acting altogether in 2017 following her engagement to Prince Harry. Her final episode of “Suits” aired in April 2018, just one month before the couple’s wedding ceremony.
At the time of her departure from acting, Markle told the BBC she felt proud of her work and ready to move forward with Harry as a team. She described leaving her career as entering a new chapter, having “ticked this box” and feeling prepared to focus on royal duties alongside her future husband.
The decision to return to acting represents a notable reversal from statements Markle made in 2022, when she told Variety she was done with acting for good. She acknowledged the possibility of never saying never but indicated her intention was absolutely not to return to performing. That perspective appears to have shifted as she navigates life in California following the couple’s departure from senior royal duties in 2020.
A studio source told The Sun that Markle’s return signifies a return to doing what she truly loves, describing it as a massive moment for her. The source indicated she has been receiving numerous offers but felt this particular project was the right fit. Prince Harry, 41, is reportedly supportive of his wife’s decision and wants her to pursue whatever brings her joy.
The “Close Personal Friends” production brings together a notable cast of Hollywood talent. Brie Larson and Lily Collins headline the ensemble, while Jack Quaid and Henry Golding round out the principal cast. The film centers on a couple who meet and befriend a celebrity couple during a trip to Santa Barbara, with personal boundaries becoming blurred and awkward situations ensuing.
Since leaving royal duties, Markle and Prince Harry have focused on various media and business ventures from their Montecito home. They signed deals with major streaming platforms and launched their Archewell Foundation. Markle has also invested in commercial enterprises including Clevr Blends and launched her lifestyle brand As Ever, which has seen products sell out following releases.
The decision to accept a cameo role rather than a starring part suggests a measured approach to reentering Hollywood. By playing herself in a small capacity, Markle can test the waters of acting again without committing to the intensive schedule that comes with leading roles. This strategy allows her to maintain her other commitments while exploring whether she wants to pursue more substantial acting opportunities in the future.
As filming continues in Pasadena, the entertainment industry is watching closely to see how audiences respond to Markle’s return. The project represents not just a personal milestone for the duchess but also a potential pivot point in her post-royal career trajectory. Whether this cameo leads to more substantial roles or remains a one-time appearance will likely depend on the reception when “Close Personal Friends” eventually releases through Amazon MGM Studios.
