A Surprising Perspective on Meghan Markle

A royal expert has uncovered surprising revelations about Queen Elizabeth II's feelings towards Meghan Markle, suggesting that the late Monarch saw her as "a breath of fresh air" and "a great asset to the Monarchy." This intriguing perspective sheds light on the often tumultuous relationship between the Duchess of Sussex and the Royal Family.

Meghan's Early Connections with the Royals

Following her marriage to Prince Harry, Meghan gave birth to a daughter named Lilibet in honor of her great-grandmother, the Queen, further symbolizing the connection Meghan hoped to nurture within the royal circle. Interestingly, Meghan was extended an invitation to celebrate Christmas at Sandringham in 2017, just five months before her wedding, marking a significant royal precedent. Unlike past royal brides, such as Kate Middleton, who were not included in such family traditions until after their nuptials, Meghan's invitation indicated the Queen's keen desire to embrace her warmly.

The Queen's Initial Embrace of Meghan

In a recent commentary, royal reporter Richard Eden revealed that "Courtiers say the Queen believed that Meghan – a divorced, mixed-race American actress – would be a breath of fresh air and a great asset to the Monarchy." The Queen took steps to fast-track Meghan's integration into royal duties by inviting her to a Commonwealth Day service mere months before the wedding, which further highlighted her commitment to welcoming Meghan into the family fold.

Challenges Arise in the Relationship

However, the relationship soon faced challenges. Less than two years after their wedding, Harry and Meghan stunned the world by stepping back from their royal obligations and moving to the United States, a decision that triggered significant upheaval within the Royal Family. This move raised eyebrows and led to speculation about the depth of the tensions that existed between Meghan and other royals, particularly the Queen herself.

Concerns Leading Up to the Wedding

Eden points out that some of Meghan's actions leading up to her wedding may have caused concern for the Queen. It was reportedly unexpected for the Queen when Meghan declined the offer for guidance from Sophie, Countess of Wessex, to navigate life within "The Firm." Furthermore, the choice of a traditional white wedding gown for her second marriage surprised Her Majesty, but it was Meghan's approach to royal accessories that created more notable rifts.

The Tiara Incident

The Queen had graciously offered Meghan access to her treasured tiara collection and even allowed her to try on some pieces in a private setting, attended by her designer and a royal jewelry expert. However, complications arose when Meghan attempted to arrange a tiara fitting with royal dresser Angela Kelly, leading to alleged disagreements about how the fitting was handled. Harry later recounted their frustrations with Kelly, but denied ever telling her, "What Meghan wants, Meghan gets."

Aftermath of Their Departure

Following their departure from royal duties, Meghan has publicly criticized "The Firm," including a moment in their Netflix docuseries where she appeared to mock her deep curtsy to the Queen during their initial meeting. Eden lamented, "How sad that the Queen's genuine efforts to welcome Meghan during her final years, when she was in failing health, were thrown back in her face."

A Broader Narrative of Change

The complexities of Meghan and the Queen's relationship illustrate a broader narrative of change within the British monarchy, particularly as it navigates modernity and tradition. As the conversation about the Royals continues to evolve, one can only wonder how history will remember these pivotal figures. Will Meghan's boldness and the Queen's attempts to adapt enhance or hinder the monarchy's legacy?