Markle vs. Online Hate: Is the Duchess Taking Aim at the Right Target?
The Duchess of Spin Strikes Again.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex and former cable-TV actress, finds herself once again at the center of a media storm, this time decrying the dangers of cyberbullying. Speaking on International Women’s Day at a SXSW panel titled “Breaking Barriers, Shaping Narratives: How Women Lead On and Off the Screen,” Markle highlighted the negative impact of online harassment. However, her long history of reported controversies raises questions about the sincerity of her message and her own role in perpetuating negativity.
Markle vs. Tech: A Match Made in PR Heaven?
While Markle criticized tech companies for prioritizing profits over mental health, her own actions bring into question the authenticity of her “advocacy.” Reports of her efforts to control her narrative, often at the expense of the media’s right to free speech, and allegations of diva-like behavior and bullying suggest a disconnect between her words and actions.
Furthermore, her reported minimal charitable involvement — one hour a week — with her and husband Prince Harry’s Archewell Foundation despite substantial donations raises concerns about her commitment to addressing social issues, especially considering Markle frequently refers to herself as a philanthropist. The moniker “Duchess of Spin,” often used by Markle’s critics, highlights the apparent contradiction between her advocacy for online civility and her own reported behavior.
The Royal Controversy
The controversy surrounding the skin tone of Markle and Prince Harry’s son, Archie, initially highlighted when the pair sat down for an interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, was reignited following the release last year of Omid Scobie’s new book “Endgame.” Scobie, who also wrote a book detailing the couple’s break with the royal family called “Finding Freedom,” has long been considered the couple’s mouthpiece, though he denies otherwise.
As the public had long speculated since the Oprah interview who the so-called royal racists were, Scobie claims to have accidentally slipped who the culprits were when he published allegations in “Endgame” suggesting that it was King Charles III and Kate, the Princess of Wales, prompting equal parts outrage from Markle detractors and supporters.
Despite these claims, neither Markle nor Prince Harry have refuted the allegations, leading to further speculation and debate. If these allegations are untrue, as many royal insiders and correspondents like Tom Bower and Neil Sean have reported, allowing these rumors to fester suggests a tacit contribution to the toxic environment she claims to be fighting against. This is further underscored by the fact that Bower, known for his scathing book on Markle titled “Revenge: Meghan, Harry, and the War Between the Windsors,” has yet to face legal action from the normally litigious couple.
Markle’s seemingly frosty relationships extend beyond the royal family to her former “Suits” co-stars. Gina Torres, who portrayed Jessica Pearson on the show, recently hinted at the strained dynamic during a red-carpet appearance at the Golden Globes. While the cast members exchanged texts about their excitement for the event, Torres revealed that they didn’t have Markle’s phone number, implying a lack of close contact since she joined the royal family. This revelation adds another layer to Markle’s complex interpersonal dynamics and further calls into question the authenticity of her public image.
Moreover, amidst these controversies, Markle faces legal battles on another front. Her half-sister, Samantha Markle, is currently suing her for defamation. This ongoing legal dispute underscores the complexities of Markle’s public persona and adds to the narrative of familial discord and personal conflict surrounding the Duchess. She wants apologies from the royals about how poorly she was allegedly treated during her time working in the royal family. Yet she refuses to forgive her own father for his minor transgressions while also using titles the late Queen Elizabeth II— whom she mocked with a fake curtsy during her and Prince Harry’s Netflix series “Harry and Meghan” — which she continues to monetize to further her entertainment ventures. If the royal family is racist, many have asked, why use their titles? But I digress.
Navigating the Complexity
Addressing online toxicity requires a nuanced approach that considers the multifaceted nature of the issue. While Markle’s advocacy brings attention to the problem of cyberbullying, her own history of controversial behavior highlights the challenges of tackling negativity in the digital age. From alleged rifts with family members to accusations of orchestrating her own narrative, Markle’s actions have contributed to a climate of distrust and division.
The Verdict: It’s Complicated
Markle’s efforts to combat online hate spark important conversations, but they must be met with scrutiny and introspection. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her public persona, it becomes increasingly evident that true progress requires more than just words — it demands genuine action and accountability. Let us strive for a digital landscape where civility prevails and meaningful change thrives.
