Getty Image
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is once again facing public scrutiny following her latest campaign, where she opened up about being one of the most bullied people in the world. Speaking at a recent Girls Inc. event, Meghan highlighted her experiences with online harassment and bullying. However, critics have been quick to remind her of the bullying allegations that have been lodged against her in the past.
Christopher Andersen, author of The King, weighed in on the controversy during an interview with Fox News. While acknowledging the immense criticism Meghan has faced since marrying Prince Harry, he questioned the timing and appropriateness of her statements given the past accusations against her.
“In fairness, since marrying Prince Harry, she has been on the receiving end of some pretty scalding criticism—some of it legitimate, but much of it not,” Andersen stated. “The amount of visceral anger aimed at Meghan online is quite remarkable. If Meghan feels unfairly targeted, she probably has every right to.”
However, Andersen also pointed out the potential misstep in her latest remarks. “But is it wise for someone who has been described as a workplace bully—whether it’s true or not—to complain that she is a victim of bullying? It may come off as just more egocentric whining. We’ve heard it all before,” he added, suggesting that Meghan’s comments could backfire, especially considering the previous accusations against her.
These remarks come in the wake of longstanding allegations made by former staff members during her time as a working royal. In 2021, several staff members came forward, claiming that Meghan had bullied them during her tenure at Kensington Palace. Meghan and Prince Harry have consistently denied these allegations, with their team describing the claims as part of a broader smear campaign aimed at undermining Meghan.
Since stepping down from their royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Harry have been outspoken about their experiences within the Royal Family, accusing the institution of racism and neglect. The couple’s explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey, where they revealed details of their struggles, intensified the scrutiny surrounding their departure from royal life.
Now residing in California with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have taken on new roles as public figures in the United States. They have focused on charitable work, media ventures, and activism, often speaking about mental health, equality, and social justice. However, Meghan’s recent statements about being a victim of bullying have reignited debate about her own treatment of staff while still a working royal.
Critics argue that Meghan’s decision to bring up her own experiences with bullying could appear tone-deaf in light of the unresolved allegations against her. On the other hand, supporters maintain that Meghan has faced an unparalleled level of hostility, particularly from certain segments of the media and social media, and has the right to speak out about her experiences.
As Andersen noted, “We’ve heard it all before,” but the question remains whether Meghan’s latest remarks will resonate with the public or contribute to further criticism of her perceived victimhood.
