Meghan Markle is reportedly upset by the release of James Middleton's new memoir. James, the younger brother of Catherine, the Princess of Wales, recently published a book that celebrates his beloved dog, Ella, and the profound impact she had on his life.
However, it’s not the heartwarming tales of his canine companion that have caught Meghan’s attention. Instead, it’s James’s recounting of a key moment involving his sister Catherine and Prince William that seems to have sparked controversy. His version of events appears to contradict the story Meghan shared during her highly publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey.
In James Middleton's memoir, he depicts a close-knit, warm royal family, a portrayal at odds with Meghan's description of a more distant and reserved environment. One particular anecdote recounts an informal family gathering where James introduced his now-wife to Catherine and William. According to James, the couple arrived casually with their children in tow and interacted warmly and naturally with him and his partner. This account paints a picture of a friendly and approachable royal family, which starkly contrasts with Meghan’s recollection of her first meeting with Catherine and William.
During her Oprah interview, Meghan described her initial encounter with the royal couple as formal and somewhat stiff. She recalled feeling underdressed, wearing ripped jeans and bare feet, while Catherine and William maintained a level of formality that made her feel uncomfortable. Meghan's account emphasized the lack of warmth she perceived from the royal family, a key theme in her broader narrative of feeling isolated within the institution.
Sources close to the Sussexes suggest that Meghan feels James Middleton's version of events undermines her own account, making it seem less credible or accurate. In James’s book, Catherine and William come across as welcoming and informal, leaving Meghan’s narrative of formality and aloofness in a precarious position. This perceived contradiction has reportedly upset both Meghan and Prince Harry, who feel that James’s inclusion of this story was a deliberate attempt to challenge Meghan’s credibility.
The tension between these two contrasting stories is further complicated by Prince Harry’s reaction during the Oprah interview. While Harry was present throughout the conversation, he did not directly contradict Meghan’s version of events. However, some observers noted that his body language and facial expressions hinted at discomfort, leading to speculation that he may not have fully endorsed Meghan's perspective. This subtle dissonance has only fueled further debate about the accuracy of Meghan’s claims.
James Middleton, who has traditionally kept a lower profile compared to his famous siblings, seems to have unwittingly stirred the pot with his memoir. Known primarily for his business ventures and love for animals, James has largely stayed out of the spotlight. Yet with this latest book, he finds himself caught in the crossfire of the ongoing tensions between Meghan, Harry, and the royal family.
The timing of James’s memoir couldn’t be worse for the Sussexes, who have faced a wave of negative press in recent months. With their credibility already under scrutiny, Meghan and Harry may be particularly sensitive to any narrative that challenges their version of events or portrays them in a less favorable light. For Meghan, who has frequently spoken about the emotional toll of her time within the royal family, this perceived contradiction could feel like a personal attack.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Meghan or Harry will publicly address James Middleton’s memoir, or whether they will choose to let the matter quietly fade. However, given the Sussexes' history of speaking out on issues that concern them, it wouldn’t be surprising if they eventually share their thoughts on the matter, either directly or through trusted sources. This latest development is yet another chapter in the ongoing saga of Meghan and Harry's strained relationship with the royal family, a dynamic that continues to captivate public interest.
