During his performance at the Atheneum Theatre in Melbourne, Australia, on Saturday night, comedian Arch Barker delivered a scathing routine that harshly criticized Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.
This surprised many who were familiar with Barker's typically mild-mannered and amiable style. He unleashed sharp criticisms against Meghan, accusing her of being an impostor merely using her royal status for personal gain. The shift from light-hearted jokes to controversial remarks left some audience members taken aback, while others found it entertaining.
In contrast, Barker praised Kate Middleton, Meghan's sister-in-law, for her gracefulness and dignified handling of pressures within palace life, showcasing true royal character traits. Unlike Meghan, whom Barker accused of persona forgery, Kate was hailed for her authenticity. This performance sparked a significant reaction, causing an uproar among fans and leading to mixed reviews online after Barker posted about it on social media.
During his show, Barker expressed skepticism towards Meghan's complaints about her experience as royalty, highlighting Kate Middleton's fortitude in facing similar challenges without publicly airing her struggles. He juxtaposed Meghan's conduct with Kate's and dismissed Meghan's reported battles with mental illness and accusations of racism within the monarchy as weak attempts to seek sympathy and publicity. Initially, Barker's comedy won over the audience, but the unexpected turn in his performance elicited mixed reactions. Some viewers felt uncomfortable, while others supported him for voicing views similar to their own.
Barker extended his critique beyond Meghan's personal life, questioning her professional pursuits and suggesting that she used charity projects to enhance her reputation rather than genuinely help those in need. This was contrasted with Kate Middleton's substantial positive contributions over the years without seeking personal attention. Barker's final words to Meghan urged her to appreciate the benefits of being royalty rather than voice grievances. He highlighted the enviable aspects of her life, such as having a prince for a spouse, vast wealth, and connections with notable individuals worldwide—things most people can only dream about.
His comments sparked animated discussions among spectators who debated his frank opinions on royal controversies and the character traits of each duchess. The performance left a lasting impact, with debates continuing online and in various media outlets, illustrating the polarizing effect of Barker's unexpected shift in comedic tone.
