John Stewart’s highly anticipated return to The Daily Show was nothing short of electrifying, with his sharp and unfiltered critique of Meghan Markle setting social media ablaze. Using his signature wit, Stewart dismantled the Duchess of Sussex’s carefully curated public persona, portraying her less as a genuine advocate and more as a calculated celebrity eager to control the narrative around her.
As laughter erupted in the studio, it became evident that Stewart had tapped into a growing wave of skepticism about Markle’s intentions. His scathing take left many questioning whether she truly stands for the causes she claims to champion or if her activism is merely a well-executed performance.
Stewart didn’t hold back as he pointed out the contradictions in Markle’s public image. While she frequently speaks about mental health awareness, female empowerment, and social justice, her extravagant lifestyle and lucrative media deals paint a different picture. “It’s hard to take someone seriously when their idea of struggle involves signing a Netflix deal worth more than most people will see in a lifetime,” Stewart quipped, drawing roaring applause from the audience.
The comedian also took aim at Markle’s narrative of hardship within the British royal family, arguing that her version of events seems to shift depending on the audience. He referenced her now-infamous Oprah interview, where she portrayed herself as a victim of the monarchy’s rigid structure and alleged racism. Yet, as Stewart pointed out, she had no problem leveraging her royal title when it served her interests. “You can’t claim to be silenced while simultaneously doing a prime-time special with Oprah,” he said, earning laughter from those who have grown weary of what they perceive as her selective victimhood.
Among those quick to react was Piers Morgan, one of Markle’s most vocal critics. He took to Twitter, declaring, “John Stewart just said what we’ve all been thinking—Meghan Markle is the greatest actress of our time, playing the role of a lifetime: herself.” Even some of Markle’s former defenders found themselves nodding along, as Stewart’s blunt honesty underscored an argument that has been gaining traction for years—that her brand of advocacy is only as deep as her next PR opportunity.
Adding to the controversy, Stewart dissected Markle’s rapid transition from royal duties to Hollywood’s elite circles, questioning whether her departure from the royal family was truly about freedom or simply a calculated rebranding strategy. “It’s fascinating how someone can go from ‘I just want privacy’ to signing up for multiple high-profile interviews and docuseries in record time,” he mused, sending the audience into fits of laughter.
Journalist Megyn Kelly also chimed in, praising Stewart for daring to call out Markle’s contradictions. “For years, anyone who questioned Meghan was labeled a racist or a hater. But Stewart’s segment proves people are waking up—Meghan Markle is a master manipulator who knows exactly how to play the media,” she stated on her podcast.
However, Markle’s defenders were quick to push back, arguing that she has endured relentless media scrutiny and that Stewart’s critique was both unfair and misogynistic. “A woman speaks about her struggles, and suddenly she’s a fraud? Why do we always tear down successful women?” one Twitter user wrote, echoing the sentiments of those who believe Markle is unjustly vilified.
Yet, as Stewart pointed out, public figures—especially those who actively seek media attention—must be held accountable for their contradictions. He likened Markle’s approach to that of modern influencers who claim to champion noble causes while living in multi-million-dollar mansions, far removed from the struggles they claim to understand. “It’s the classic ‘Do as I say, not as I do’ routine,” he concluded, making his stance crystal clear.
The segment sent shockwaves across the internet, with #JohnStewart and #MeghanMarkle trending for hours. Even celebrities joined the conversation, with comedian Bill Maher commenting, “John Stewart just gave the roast of the decade—Hollywood hypocrisy has never been more obvious.”
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: public patience for Markle’s ever-evolving narrative is wearing thin. While her carefully curated image may have once shielded her from intense scrutiny, figures like John Stewart are proving that no amount of PR spin can suppress the truth forever. Her attempts to control her own story are now facing increasing resistance, and if Stewart’s segment is any indication, the world is no longer willing to take her at her word.
In the end, Stewart’s fearless commentary wasn’t just about Meghan Markle—it was a broader critique of celebrity culture, where personal branding often takes precedence over genuine advocacy. As Markle continues her quest for relevance, she may find that the very media machine she once relied on has begun turning against her. And as Stewart himself might say—now that’s comedy.
