Princess Catherine viewed Meghan Markle as abrasive and anticipated that the Sussexes would eventually part ways with the royal family, sources close to the matter confirm. The two women have reportedly not spoken in several years, with tensions escalating after Prince Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020.
Shifting Dynamics Post-Wedding
Catherine initially attempted to mediate between brothers Prince William and Prince Harry during their disputes, attributing conflicts to immaturity. However, the Sussexes’ approach toward palace staff, whom William and Catherine valued deeply, altered the trajectory dramatically.
After Harry and Meghan’s 2018 wedding, William and Catherine perceived an underlying agenda in the couple’s actions. Sources describe the atmosphere as toxic, with Meghan appearing bullish and Catherine finding her abrasive. Catherine recognized the inevitability of a separation, though the full extent surprised many.
Initial Meetings and Cultural Clashes
Meghan began dating Prince Harry in 2016, leading to their engagement in 2017 and marriage the following year. During their 2017 engagement interview, Harry recounted introducing Meghan to William and Catherine, his neighbors at the time.
Harry stated: “William was longing to meet her and so was Catherine… Catherine has been absolutely wonderful.” Meghan added: “Wonderful.”
In 2022, Meghan reflected on her first encounter with William and Catherine, saying: “When Will and Kate came over, and I met her for the first time, they came over for dinner, I remember I was in ripped jeans and I was barefoot. I was a hugger. I’ve always been a hugger, I didn’t realise that that is really jarring for a lot of Brits.”
She continued: “I guess I started to understand very quickly that the formality on the outside carried through on the inside. There is a forward-facing way of being, and then you close the door and go ‘You can relax now’, but that formality carries over on both sides. And that was surprising to me.”
