Recent discussions surrounding Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s relationship with the late Queen Elizabeth II have shed light on the complexities of their interactions leading up to their royal wedding in May 2018. Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith recently revealed that Harry’s behavior during this time may have strained his bond with the queen, describing him as “rude” and demanding, which likely caused disappointment for the monarch.
Initially, Queen Elizabeth was charmed by Meghan’s intelligence and public demeanor. However, her appreciation turned into concern as she detected Meghan’s increasing assertiveness. Reports indicate that members of the queen’s inner circle, including her cousin Lady Elizabeth Anson, harbored doubts about Meghan’s feelings for Harry, suggesting that some believed she was more interested in her royal position than in a genuine relationship.
Anson, known as a prominent party planner, shared insights into their wedding preparations, recounting how the queen felt “dismayed” by Harry’s decision to proceed with wedding arrangements without proper consultation from church officials. This break of protocol reportedly upset the queen, highlighting the importance of tradition within the royal family.
While interactions between Harry and his grandmother did improve shortly before the wedding, concerns remained about Meghan’s relationship with her estranged father, Thomas Markle. It became apparent that tensions were also brewing between Harry and his brother, Prince William, particularly regarding how Meghan was integrating into the family dynamic. Anson noted that issues between Meghan and Kate Middleton were particularly fraught, leading to challenges in collaboration.
Despite the queen’s reservations, she extended warmth towards Meghan, giving her the title of Duchess of Sussex and including her in royal engagements. This generosity adds another layer to the narrative, suggesting that the queen tried her utmost to embrace Meghan into the royal fold.
These revelations come in the wake of Meghan and Harry stepping away from their royal duties and building a life in the United States. Their ongoing journey reflects a significant transition not just for them, but also for the monarchy and its relationship with modernity, as they navigate their identities outside of royal expectations. The situation serves as a reminder of the intricate nature of family dynamics, especially under the scrutiny of public life.
As the world continues to observe Harry and Meghan’s journey, there is hope that their experiences may resonate with broader themes of family and belonging, encouraging discussions on how to bridge differences and embrace change.