Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has faced an unprecedented level of scrutiny and criticism in the UK. Despite initially being welcomed with open arms when she married Prince Harry in 2018, public perception quickly shifted, leading many to question: why is Meghan Markle so hated in the UK? The reasons are multifaceted, stemming from a combination of media portrayal, royal expectations, race, and cultural differences.
One of the main reasons Meghan Markle faces hostility in the UK is due to the aggressive and often biased coverage by the British tabloid media. From the start of her relationship with Prince Harry, Meghan was the subject of constant headlines that ranged from personal attacks to criticisms of her behavior. Many believe the tabloid press targeted her because she represented something different—an American actress, biracial, and outspoken.
Comparisons between Meghan and Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, were frequent. However, the media coverage of Kate was often glowing, while Meghan was criticized for similar actions, like cradling her baby bump or wearing certain types of clothing. This double standard fueled perceptions that Meghan was being unfairly treated, sparking debates about underlying racism and classism.
The British Royal Family operates within a rigid framework of tradition, and Meghan Markle's arrival appeared to disrupt the status quo. Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from their roles as senior royals in 2020, famously referred to as "Megxit," shocked many in the UK. Their decision to move to the United States and become financially independent was seen as a betrayal by some, who viewed the couple as abandoning their royal duties.
Meghan has also been vocal about her struggles within the royal family, notably in the 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. She revealed personal difficulties, including mental health challenges and alleged racism from within the royal institution. For many Britons who hold the monarchy in high regard, airing the family's dirty laundry in such a public way was perceived as damaging to the institution's reputation.
Meghan Markle is the first biracial woman to marry into the British royal family, and this aspect of her identity has undoubtedly contributed to the divisive opinions surrounding her. While some celebrate Meghan for bringing diversity to the monarchy, others have responded with prejudice. Many of the negative headlines and online abuse Meghan has faced have been tinged with racist undertones, with some accusing her of not fitting the traditional mold of a British royal.
The racial bias became especially evident during Meghan’s time as a senior royal, and it was further highlighted in her Oprah interview. Meghan claimed there were "concerns and conversations" within the royal family about how dark her son Archie's skin might be. These allegations of racism within the royal institution amplified the debate, with some people sympathetic toward Meghan while others viewed her comments as an attack on the monarchy.
Meghan Markle’s American roots and outspoken nature have also clashed with traditional British sensibilities. The UK has a long history of keeping a "stiff upper lip," especially within the royal family, which prides itself on maintaining privacy and decorum. Meghan’s candid approach to discussing personal matters, such as her mental health and experiences with racism, contrasts sharply with the British tendency to avoid airing grievances in public.
Moreover, her career as an actress and lifestyle blogger before marrying into royalty was unconventional for a member of the royal family, further setting her apart. Some Britons saw her as too modern, outspoken, or even opportunistic, contributing to the negative sentiment.
Meghan is often blamed for the changes in Prince Harry’s relationship with the royal family. As a beloved member of the monarchy, Harry was once viewed as a carefree, fun-loving prince. However, following his marriage to Meghan, his relationship with the media, the public, and the royal family seemed to deteriorate. The couple’s withdrawal from royal duties and their public criticism of the institution have caused some to accuse Meghan of influencing Harry’s decisions.
To many in the UK, Meghan represents the reason Harry has distanced himself from his family, which has only deepened resentment toward her.
The hatred Meghan Markle faces in the UK is the result of several interwoven factors, including the influence of the British media, her struggles with royal tradition, racial bias, cultural differences, and her perceived role in Prince Harry’s estrangement from the royal family. While some of the criticism is rooted in legitimate concerns, much of it appears to stem from deeper societal issues, including race and the preservation of tradition. Ultimately, Meghan Markle has become a polarizing figure who challenges the traditional image of the British royal family, making her both a symbol of change and a target for hate.
By understanding these factors, we can better comprehend the complexity behind Meghan’s controversial reputation in the UK.
