James Haskell and Mike Tindall have taken aim at Meghan Markle's supporter, Omid Scobie, in their forthcoming book The Good, The Bad and The Rugby Unleashed, set to be released on October 24th.
Known for their cheeky, irreverent humor, the duo doesn’t hold back in their critique of the world surrounding the "American Royal" phenomenon. Their candid commentary is expected to stir controversy among Meghan’s staunchest fans. Haskell, who is recognized for his sharp wit, particularly takes issue with Scobie, a journalist closely allied with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
In the book, Haskell describes Scobie as a "very odd bloke" and adds a zinger by stating that some royal fans are "mental." He specifically calls out the term “Scobies,” referring to Meghan’s most loyal supporters, and implies they are an especially fanatical group. This blunt critique will likely resonate with those familiar with the often heated discourse within Meghan’s fandom, where emotional devotion frequently overshadows rational debate.
Mike Tindall, the former England rugby star and husband of Zara Tindall, joins in on the criticism as well. During a promotional interview with The Telegraph, Tindall addressed Scobie’s previous accusations, including the claim that Tindall was cashing in on his royal connections by appearing on I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!. The underlying tension between Meghan and Tindall is evident, especially given Meghan’s turbulent exit from royal life, which starkly contrasts with Tindall’s smooth integration into the royal family after marrying Zara in 2011. Tindall describes his experience of joining the royal family as "pretty easy," suggesting a cordial, even comfortable, transition. On the other hand, Meghan’s story has been one of struggle and friction, painting a bleak picture of her time with the royal family—marked by strained relationships, particularly with Catherine, Princess of Wales, over something as minor as flower girl dresses.
In contrast to Meghan’s account of royal life, Tindall has fostered strong relationships within the family. He is said to have developed a particularly close bond with Prince William and his children, often spending time with them in informal settings. A royal insider once commented that Tindall and Zara are viewed as the "glue" of their generation, offering much-needed light-heartedness amid the heavy weight of royal duties. Tindall’s depiction of his royal life seems idyllic, in stark opposition to Meghan’s narrative of conflict, raising questions about the validity of her grievances. Tindall appears to have nurtured a deep friendship with William, Catherine, and their three children, especially Prince George. He has spoken fondly of playing football with George in the garden, further illustrating the relaxed, family-oriented nature of his interactions with the royals. William’s well-documented "bromance" with Tindall suggests this bond naturally extends to the next generation.
Earlier this year, a source told The Times that Tindall and Zara are seen as the "glue" holding their generation of royals together. Regardless of how serious an occasion may be, the pair have a unique ability to lift the family’s spirits and lighten the atmosphere. The source further noted that while some royal family members can be formal, Tindall’s down-to-earth nature allows him to be playful and relaxed around Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. This close family dynamic is bolstered by the fact that the Tindalls’ children are of similar ages to William and Catherine’s, enabling them to spend time together privately and create a sense of normalcy amidst the often stressful royal environment.
With the release of their book, Haskell and Tindall are not only taking a shot at Omid Scobie but also shining a light on the contradictions within celebrity culture and royal fandom. Through humor and irreverence, they turn the lens back on Meghan and her supporters, exposing some of the absurdities that surround her public image and the often intense devotion of her fan base.
