In a recent book, it was revealed that Meghan Markle found it challenging to adapt to her royal touring responsibilities after tying the knot with Prince Harry. The former actress, 43, was apparently taken aback to discover she wouldn’t be paid for royal engagements and tours.
During their 2018 visit to Australia, the Suits alum and Duke of Sussex, 40, faced a stark reminder of Markle’s unfamiliarity with her duties. This insight comes from Valentine Low‘s book, Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown. “On the South Pacific tour, Harry and Meghan were going down a storm,” Lowe wrote.
Meghan Markle Was Once Taken Aback After Learning She Wouldn't Be Paid For Royal Tours, According To New Book
The British writer went on: "Massive crowds were turning out to see them, and Meghan’s refreshingly informal approach to royal visits was proving a hit with the Australian public." Low added: "Behind the scenes, however, it was a different story."
"Although she enjoyed the attention, Meghan failed to understand the point of all those walkabouts, shaking hands with countless strangers. According to several members of staff, she was heard to say on at least one occasion: 'I can't believe I’m not getting paid for this.'"
The Duchess of Sussex, though residing in Montecito, California, is believed by royal enthusiasts to be aiming to leverage her noble title to explore new ventures in the United States. As reported by Ok! Magazine, psychotherapist Dr. Robi Ludwig said: "Meghan's ultimate aim seems to be to make herself relevant and to transform herself into American royalty who is admired and powerful, independent of her husband."
Regarding the mom of two (who shares son Archie, 5, and daughter Lilibet, 3, with Harry), the commenter added: "Whether this will be successful remains to be seen, as the public has not always been receptive to many aspects of her character and personality."
Markle, according to the outlet, is anticipated to concentrate on developing her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which will specialize in preserves and homeware. Meanwhile, Harry will persist in seeking humanitarian endeavors.
The Archetypes podcast host also made several recent public appearances without her Spare author hubby. On October 2nd, Markle made a stop at Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara to chat about a topic she’s passionate about: the “digital wellness” program, co-funded by the Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation.
For the occasion, she kept it classy in a blue button-up shirt that she tucked inside loose white trousers. A brown belt cinched her waist, and she opted for matching brown pumps to give her a little lift. On October 5th, she made a rare red carpet appearance at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles 2024 Gala in a fiery-red ensemble (above).
Markle stunned in a Carolina Herrera gown she previously wore at the Salute to Freedom Gala in 2021. The dress featured a deep plunging neckline, a halter neck, and a slit skirt. She added a modern twist to the original ballgown by detaching the skirt. The Deal or No Deal star paired the glamorous evening dress with matching red heeled sandals. Markle styled her dark hair in effortless curls and rocked a nude lipstick for an understated glam.
The duchess chatted briefly with the media about the hospital, calling it "the best in the world." "Oh my goodness, the work they do at Children's Hospital L.A. is otherworldly, and I think from my standpoint as a mother, no one wants to be in a position where you need to go to a place like this, but if you have to, the best place in the world you could go would be Children's Hospital L.A," she said.
