In a recent event aimed at empowering young girls, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, shared her experiences of feeling victimized, claiming to be “one of the most bullied people in the world.”
This declaration has raised eyebrows, especially among those familiar with her behavior since her engagement to Prince Harry.
Some might ask, doesn’t it take one to recognize another?
It’s worth noting that Meghan’s poignant comments came on the heels of mounting allegations regarding her challenging demeanor towards her staff.
For instance, Santa Barbara, where she spoke, is known for its socioeconomic struggles.
Did the privileged background of the Duchess resonate with the realities faced by those girls?
Adding to the intrigue, Meghan’s statements coincided with reports detailing her alleged tyrannical behavior in the workplace.
An article from The Hollywood Reporter cited a source close to the couple, revealing that some of her employees reportedly referred to her as a “dictator in high heels.” The claims suggested that she disregarded advice from others and often left her staff in tears.
The Sussexes responded vehemently, labeling these stories as harmful fabrications.
A representative insisted that these accounts stemmed from someone who didn’t truly understand their organization.
They highlighted that Meghan was a thoughtful employer, often surprising her staff with gifts, including baby clothes that her children had outgrown.
However, despite these defenses, the label “Duchess Difficult” seems to stick.
Accusations of her diva-like behavior have circulated since she entered royal life.
One notable incident involved her request for a $13 million emerald tiara for her wedding—a demand that led to a heated exchange with Harry when the late Queen Elizabeth denied approval.
Initially, many attributed her challenges to cultural differences, suggesting that Meghan’s American career-driven attitude clashed with British norms.
However, her demands continued to raise questions, particularly surrounding a dispute over bridesmaid attire that allegedly left Kate Middleton in tears—a claim Meghan denies, asserting that it was actually Kate who made her cry.
One of the most troubling aspects of this saga involves the accusations of bullying directed towards Meghan during her short time as a working royal in 2018.
Reports from The Times indicated that she had driven two personal assistants away and had undermined a third, leaving seasoned aides feeling humiliated.
The Palace took these allegations seriously enough to commission an independent review in 2021.
Although the findings of this investigation have not been made public, former staff members have self-identified as part of the so-called “Sussex Survivors Club,” suggesting a culture of distress within her team.
Interestingly, no other prominent royal woman has faced similar bullying allegations.
The turnover rate among Meghan and Harry’s staff has also been remarkably high, with at least 18 members leaving since their marriage in 2018—among them, Samantha Cohen, who had once served as the Queen’s assistant private secretary.
In California, their press secretary, Toya Holness, departed after just ten months, while chief of staff Josh Kettler left following three months of work.
Although he later characterized his time with the Sussexes positively, this pattern raises questions about the working environment.
Despite ongoing speculation, Team Sussex frequently attributes the negative narratives surrounding Meghan to the royal family, alleging collusion between the British media and the Palace.
Such theories seem far-fetched, considering the myriad responsibilities that the royal family juggles, especially with pressing issues like health concerns facing key members.
Meghan often positions herself as a victim.
In a 2020 podcast appearance, she claimed to be the most trolled person globally, describing the experience as nearly unbearable.
Yet now, she’s promoting the idea of being the most bullied person as well—leading many to question the consistency of her narrative.
Perhaps during those quiet moments in her Montecito home, Meghan should reflect on the broader implications of her claims.
Instead of focusing solely on her own experiences, could it be time for her to consider who the true bully might be in this ongoing royal drama?
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