Throughout history, there are certain individuals who leave a lasting impression on us, and Princess Diana is undeniably one of them. Even today, years after her passing, she remains a poignant figure who resonates deeply with many.
A person who likely thinks of Diana more often than most is Meghan Markle. As a recent addition to the royal family, Meghan frequently finds herself compared to the late princess. Now, one of Diana’s close friends has shared their thoughts on Meghan.
Back in March 2021, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, was the focus of comparisons to Princess Diana when she and her husband, Prince Harry, sat down for an interview with Oprah Winfrey. The conversation mirrored Princess Diana’s notable 1995 interview with Martin Bashir.
In that famous interview, Diana candidly discussed her struggles with mental health and her tumultuous divorce from Prince Charles, breaking away from royal tradition by addressing such private matters publicly. During Meghan’s 2021 interview, she similarly shared her own challenges within the royal family and reflected on her treatment.
Oprah and Harry later continued the conversation in the documentary “The Me You Can’t See,” delving deeper into the subject of mental health, where Harry gave his perspective.
Harry recounted the early days of his public relationship with Meghan, stating: “Within the first eight days of our relationship becoming public was when they said, ‘Harry’s girl almost straight outta Compton.’ And that her exotic DNA will be enriching royal blood.” He added: “We were followed, photographed, chased, harassed.”
He further reflected on the racial dynamics at play, drawing parallels between his mother’s connection with her Egyptian partner in the 90s and his own experiences with Meghan.
Ever since Meghan began dating Harry in 2016, she has faced considerable media criticism and public scrutiny. Things became so overwhelming that the royal palace issued a statement on Harry’s behalf, condemning the media’s “harassment” and “racial undertones.”
Despite their marriage in 2018, Meghan and Harry continued to face challenges, leading them to step away from royal duties and relocate to the United States in early 2020.
Although tensions have eased somewhat, unresolved issues linger beneath the surface.
Contrary to public perception, not everyone opposes Meghan. Stewart Pearce, a friend of Diana’s, sees strong parallels between Diana’s and Meghan’s independent spirits.
Pearce commented: “There’s a vibrational difference, but the courage and sensitivity it took for Meghan to share those revelations were remarkable. I felt that Meghan was embodying the spirit of openness and transparency that Diana aspired to.”
Discussing the relationship between King Charles and Prince Harry, Pearce noted: “Being close to these people’s lives, the stories about the boys not getting along or issues between Harry and his father, resonate with all of us.
“In Harry’s expressions, we don’t hear resentment or disrespect. What we hear is a young man exploring emotionally, understanding what he believes the world’s values are.
“I agree with Harry’s values. We are becoming more emotionally intelligent and willing to speak openly about our feelings.”
Pearce also highlighted the remarkable traits shared by Diana and Meghan, describing them both as extraordinary women. “Diana was a powerful force of liberation… As Diana championed a voice for freedom, Harry and Meghan are taking bold steps to address and transform a regime in need of change.”
