During a recent appearance at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles, legendary singer and songwriter Lionel Richie made startling allegations about Meghan Markle's purported mistreatment of Prince Harry.
Richie, who has been a friend of the royal couple for some time, offered a candid and at times emotional account of what he claims are troubling behaviors he has witnessed during his visits to their Montecito, California home. According to Richie, these revelations come at a time of intensified public scrutiny of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been the subject of relentless negative press and tabloid speculation following their dramatic departure from the British royal family in 2020. If Richie's claims are accurate, they could further tarnish Meghan's carefully crafted public image as an advocate for women's rights and mental health awareness.
In his remarks at the Grammy Museum, Richie spoke about the close relationship he has developed with Harry and Meghan since their move to California. "I've known them for quite some time now and I consider them friends," Richie told the captivated audience. "That’s why it pains me to say that I’ve witnessed behavior from Meghan that is utterly unacceptable."
Richie described specific incidents where he claims Meghan was verbally abusive towards Harry. "I remember one occasion during a visit when Meghan began berating Harry over a minor issue—I can't even recall the exact details, but the way she spoke to him was deeply disturbing," Richie said. "It was as though she was scolding a child, with a condescending tone and dismissive gestures. The entire scene was unsettling."
He expressed particular concern over Meghan's alleged use of Harry's past mental health struggles as a weapon in their arguments. "She would taunt him about his mental health, saying things like, 'Oh, are you going to have another one of your episodes?'" Richie recounted. "It was incredibly cruel, and I’ve seen her bring him to tears on multiple occasions."
Richie revealed that he had attempted to intervene on Harry's behalf, only to face Meghan's anger. "She accused me of overstepping and not understanding their relationship. But I couldn't just stand by and watch someone emotionally abuse their partner," he said. The audience listened in stunned silence as Richie painted a picture of a toxic environment in the Sussexes' home, where Meghan allegedly exerts complete control over Harry's life.
"Harry is essentially a prisoner in his own home," Richie claimed. "Meghan makes all the decisions—controlling finances, dictating who he can see, and isolating him from his family and friends. It’s heartbreaking."
Richie admitted he had wrestled with the decision to come forward, fearing backlash. "I know this won’t be popular and that people will accuse me of seeking attention or being jealous," he said. "But Harry is my friend, and I cannot, in good conscience, stay silent while he suffers."
When asked about evidence for his claims, Richie revealed that he had secretly recorded several interactions between Harry and Meghan. "I know it was wrong to record them without their knowledge, but I felt it was necessary to document what was happening," Richie explained. "I have video footage that clearly shows Meghan belittling and even physically pushing Harry."
Richie said he had shared these recordings with a select group of trusted individuals, including members of the royal family, hoping they would intervene. "Despite my efforts, they’ve been unsuccessful so far," he said. "I’m terrified for Harry's well-being and just hope that someone—whether it’s the palace, the public, or anyone else—steps in to help him before it’s too late."
In a heartfelt plea to the audience, Richie urged anyone with information about the Sussexes' private life to come forward. "If you know something, please speak up," he implored. "This isn’t about tabloid gossip or royal drama—this is about a man’s safety and mental health."
As Richie's emotional address concluded, the room erupted in applause, with many attendees visibly moved by his concern for his friend. The world now waits with bated breath to see whether Richie's shocking revelations will prompt further scrutiny and action regarding the Sussexes' personal lives, and if Harry will find the strength and freedom to escape what Richie describes as Meghan's toxic control.
