The Royal Family Subtly Suggests Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Weren’t Transparent With Their Struggles

It was highly anticipated that Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry’s decision to sit down and talk with Oprah would result in a lot of drama for the notoriously private British royal family, and now that very scenario is upon us. While much of what Meghan and Prince Harry revealed in the conversation had been assumed or speculated, hearing the depths to which the Duke and Duchess of Sussex felt unsupported by the family was shocking. 

Naturally, the public was ready with a range of responses — from snappy memes to heartfelt empathy for the couple. One thing’s certain, though: the interview got everyone talking, and the royal family had to respond. 

Just how the official response would unfold was a question heavy on many fans’ minds, but now we’ve got a glimpse at what the strategy will be to handle the media fallout. The immediate response suggests the royal family did not know the extent of the couple’s trouble and, in turn, places the responsibility back on the Sussexes. 

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s interview was heartbreaking

It was no secret that Meghan had faced unfair and racist press coverage as the Duchess of Sussex. The evidence was public knowledge displayed in headlines across the globe.

What was less obvious until the Oprah interview was the racism Meghan and Prince Harry faced privately, from their own family members. The duchess made it clear that family members — who she did not name — had made comments about race and even questioned what skin tone her unborn child would have.

On top of that, Meghan got deeply personal and revealed that her mental health was a concern. At her worst moments, she even struggled with suicidal thoughts.

Between the constant public scrutiny — that was often untrue — and the personal turmoil, Meghan felt unsupported. When she voiced her need for mental health treatment, she felt brushed off and overlooked. With Prince Harry’s own memories of the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana, protecting his family became increasingly difficult. 

It was these deteriorating conditions that led to the decision to step away from their royal duties and pursue a more private life. 

Buckingham Palace has released a response

From the moment the interview aired, people around the world were holding their breath to see how the royal family would respond. They didn’t have to wait long. 

Buckingham Palace released an official statement in response. It was short, simple, and to the point, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t rife with meaning and subtle suggestions. It read, “The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.”

It went on to specifically call the topics involving race “concerning.” 

While the statement says that “some recollections may vary,” it does not seem to suggest that the comments were untrue.

Finally, the statement noted that the issues would be handled “privately” before ensuring the public that the Sussexes remain “much loved family members.” 

Did the official response place the blame on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle?

Of course, the internet is picking apart this brief statement for clues about the real response and what it means for the unfolding scandal. 

Many people are focusing their attention on the opening line. By saying that the family was “saddened to learn the full extent” of the issues, the notice subtly suggests that they did not know about these incidents or the impact of them prior to the interview. Ultimately, that phrasing attempts to sidestep responsibility for the actions and instead suggests that Prince Harry and Meghan did not do enough to communicate their struggles. 

What’s more, the verbiage around “some recollections may vary” appears to be a way to not deny the allegations but also cast doubt into the revelations of the interview.

While some fans are likely to side with the royal family, these comments are unlikely to appease the large — and seemingly growing — group of supporters who see Prince Harry and Meghan as the wronged parties who were working to escape a toxic environment.