In a world where mothers have become the unsung heroes behind some of the most iconic celebrities, it's easy to see why they are often celebrated for their pivotal roles.
Glamour Magazine recently paid homage to a select group of celebrity mothers—Tina Knowles, Donna Kelsey, Maggie Baird, and Mandy Teefey—crowning them "Mums of the Year." These women have raised world-renowned stars such as Beyoncé, Solange, Billie Eilish, and Selena Gomez, as well as NFL champions like Jason and Travis Kelce. Undoubtedly, their contributions to their children's success are notable, but does that really make them superior to all others?
Enter Doria Ragland, the mother of none other than Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex. Despite her unique position in the public eye, Doria's contributions to her daughter's life, and by extension Prince Harry's, seem to have been largely overlooked by the magazine. Doria, often seen as a supportive figure in the background, has been far more than just a mother-in-law to Prince Harry—she's been a steadfast presence in both Meghan's and Harry's lives. In fact, earlier this year, Doria made headlines when she was spotted socializing with Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, at an exclusive event in Los Angeles.
The event in question was hosted by the Sussexes in celebration of the Kinsey African-American Art and History Collection. Doria and Tina, two women at the heart of such influential families, were photographed together, arm-in-arm, soaking in the atmosphere. The image portrayed two mothers who had come to symbolize support, love, and resilience. It was a sight to behold, and yet Doria still didn’t make the cut for "Mum of the Year." Despite rubbing shoulders with Hollywood’s elite and playing a vital role in Meghan’s life as the mother of a duchess, Doria was passed over in favor of others, leaving many to wonder why.
As Prince Harry turns 40, his life is more scrutinized than ever, and he’s navigating the complexities of fame and personal growth with all the poise of a seasoned Broadway actor. For most people, reaching 40 is a reflective milestone—a time for introspection or even a midlife crisis. But for Harry, his every move is analyzed by the ever-watchful public eye. Throughout all of this, one person has quietly become a steadying force in his life: Doria Ragland.
Though known primarily as Meghan's mother, Doria has emerged as an influential figure in Harry's world. She has become his confidante, offering guidance not only in personal matters but also in the public relations labyrinth he now inhabits. Doria has been there to advise Harry on everything from speech preparation to handling the constant pressures of celebrity life. Once a quiet, background figure, Doria has stepped into the spotlight in an unexpected way, supporting the prince through one of the most tumultuous periods of his life.
Who could have predicted that Doria, the unassuming mother from California, would one day become a guiding figure for a British prince? Her transformation from Meghan's supportive mother to Harry's trusted advisor is nothing short of remarkable. In many ways, Doria is helping Harry navigate his new life just as much as Meghan is, proving that her role in this story is far from minor.
One of the more intriguing moments in Harry’s recent journey has been his decision to get a new tattoo during a visit to New York City. Was this an impulsive act, or was it something more symbolic? Some speculate that Doria herself may have inspired the move, given her growing influence in Harry’s life. While other celebrities are busy erasing tattoos that symbolize past relationships, Harry seems to be embracing his love for Meghan through permanent ink. It’s as if his tattoo is saying, "I’m committed, and I’m not afraid to show it."
And where is Doria in all of this? Likely observing with a knowing smile. The thought of Doria as Harry’s muse for a tattoo is both amusing and telling. It speaks to the deep bond they’ve formed, a bond that’s been cultivated through shared experiences, trust, and mutual respect.
But life as a royal in the modern world is not without its complications. While Doria continues to be a supportive figure for Harry, the couple faces increasing scrutiny, not just from the media but from authorities as well. Recent reports suggest that the IRS has reasons—four million of them—to take a closer look at the Sussexes’ finances. The fact that Doria, a woman who spent time in federal prison years ago, is now advising a prince only adds to the public’s fascination with this unusual dynamic.
Harry and Meghan’s relationship with Doria has proven to be far from conventional. Some might even say that Harry has found in Doria the nurturing figure he missed after his mother, Princess Diana, passed away. But whether or not Doria's influence on Harry extends beyond personal matters into more controversial territory remains to be seen. Regardless, Doria has quietly become a major player in the Sussex story, supporting her daughter and son-in-law through their ups and downs, while the world watches with bated breath.
In a world where turning 40 and having a royal title puts one under the microscope, Doria Ragland stands as a testament to quiet strength, resilience, and the unpredictable power of maternal influence.
