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Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has recently come under fire for her public image and actions, with several critics suggesting she could benefit from looking to the examples set by other American women who have successfully married into royalty. In particular, ex-Vanity Fair editor Tina Brown didn’t hold back when she claimed that “all her ideas are total crap” and that Meghan has “the worst judgment of anyone in the entire world.”
This criticism has opened the door for further reflections on Meghan’s conduct and the choices she has made since joining the royal family. Adding to Brown’s remarks, biographer Christopher Wilson echoed these sentiments in a recent article for the Mail, stating, “Slammed by ex-Vanity Fair editor Tina Brown as having ‘the worst judgment of anyone in the entire world’, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, appears to be attracting yet more negative publicity.”
Wilson’s article suggests that this ongoing scrutiny might be an opportune moment for Meghan to reassess her approach and learn from the experiences of over thirty American women who have married into royal families throughout history. In his piece, Wilson lists several notable figures who exemplify dignity and grace in their royal roles.
He points to Kelly Rodesvedt, who wed Prince Hubertus of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha in 2000, and Sarah Butler, who married Prince Zeid bin Ra’ad of Jordan in the same year. Wilson also mentions iconic figures such as Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco, Marie-Chantal, the Crown Princess of Greece, and Rita Hayworth, who was married to Prince Aly Khan from 1949 to 1953.
These women, according to Wilson, have “achieved more in life with their royal marriages than Meghan Markle has so far managed,” suggesting that they have left a positive mark on the world while navigating the complexities of royal life. He contrasts their accomplishments with Meghan’s ongoing struggles with public perception and media criticism, indicating that perhaps a shift in strategy could serve her well.
The underlying message is clear: there is a path to success and respect in royal circles, exemplified by these historical figures, which Meghan could consider as she navigates her role in the royal family and beyond. Wilson’s call for Meghan to embody the dignity displayed by these American princesses is not merely about conforming to traditional expectations but rather about finding a way to balance personal identity with the responsibilities that come with royalty.
Moreover, Wilson points out that the only exception among those women, who may not have had a favorable public image, is Barbara Hutton, the daughter of retail tycoon Frank Winfield Woolworth, who had a tumultuous private life. This further emphasizes the notion that while royal marriages can be fraught with challenges, many American women have managed to retain their dignity and public favor.
As Meghan continues to chart her course in the public eye, the scrutiny from critics like Tina Brown and Christopher Wilson underscores the complexities of her situation. While she has undoubtedly faced significant challenges, the comparison to other American royals serves as both a critique and a potential roadmap for a more dignified approach in the future. Whether Meghan will take this advice to heart remains to be seen, but it certainly highlights the ongoing discussion around her role and influence as a modern royal.
