Allegations that Meghan Markle is difficult to work with, reportedly earning her the nickname "Duchess Difficult," have been forcefully refuted by sources close to the Duchess of Sussex. The Hollywood Reporter recently published claims that Markle has mistreated staff, describing her as a demanding and temperamental boss, but insiders from her Archewell Foundation have vehemently denied the accusations, calling them "fabrication" and "total nonsense."
According to The Hollywood Reporter's controversial piece, former staff members allegedly described Meghan as "marching around like a dictator in high heels" and "barking orders." One source claimed to have seen her reduce "grown men to tears." The report also noted her supposed "angry 5am emails," which it said had contributed to her difficult reputation.
However, insiders from Meghan's Archewell Foundation have swiftly pushed back against these claims. Speaking to GB News, one source clarified that the accusations simply don't align with how the foundation operates, dismissing the idea that Meghan behaves as described. "The duke and duchess work from Montecito, and we're based in Hollywood. They likely think we're all in the same office and that this quote would fly, but the circumstances don't even allow for it," the insider explained. "It's total nonsense."
The Hollywood Reporter piece also claimed that Meghan's behavior left staff "terrified" and unwilling to speak up. A source said, "Everyone's terrified of Meghan. She belittles people, she doesn't take advice." However, the Archewell team has rejected this portrayal, particularly the claim about her notorious early morning emails. "Who hasn't sent an email when they can't sleep?" asked one insider. "I've never once gotten an email from either of them at that hour, and even if I did, the duchess specifically notes in her email signature that everyone has a different working day and not to feel obligated to respond outside of normal business hours."
The timing of the allegations has also raised eyebrows. A Sussex source noted that the article was published just days before Prince Harry's birthday, suggesting that it could be part of a coordinated effort to discredit the couple. "There are fears that a disgruntled former staff member could be behind this, pushing mistruths designed to make them look bad," said the source.
Royal commentator Cameron Walker, speaking to GB News, added some balance to the controversy, acknowledging that there are "two sides to every story." He said, "Those close to Meghan are going to be supporting her and defending her well, and clearly, The Hollywood Reporter has its own agenda against Harry and Meghan."
This isn't the first time Meghan has faced such accusations since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. Over the years, several claims of inappropriate behavior have surfaced, often portraying the Duchess as a demanding figure. The latest allegations, however, appear to have drawn a line between supporters and detractors, with some seeing the report as part of a continuing media narrative against Meghan.
Despite the recurring allegations, Meghan has remained focused on her work. The Archewell Foundation has emphasized its commitment to positive initiatives, and insiders say the Duchess is intent on moving forward with her projects, including the successful Invictus Games, which continues to build global support.
While the "Duchess Difficult" nickname may resonate with critics, insiders are confident that it doesn't reflect the reality of Meghan's working style. "The focus for Camp Sussex now is to build on the success of the last year and take that positive momentum forward into 2025 and beyond," said a source.
The report also touched on Meghan's relationship with Prince Harry, with one source describing the dynamic between the couple as one in which Harry enables Meghan's behavior. Still, insiders insist that both are aligned in their approach to leadership and decision-making. "Harry is a very, very charming person-no airs at all-but he's very much an enabler," the source alleged. But Meghan's defenders, including her team at Archewell, paint a different picture, one where both work collaboratively and respectfully with their staff.
As Meghan continues to face public scrutiny, especially from outlets that have targeted her since she left the royal family, her supporters remain steadfast. They argue that these reports are part of a long-running smear campaign, pointing to her and Harry's ongoing success in their charitable and public endeavors.
In the face of the continued criticism, Meghan's camp remains focused on maintaining a positive narrative. "The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable," Meghan noted in a previous message about her work-life balance, underscoring her commitment to both her family and her public engagements.
While the media attention on Meghan and Harry shows no sign of abating, sources close to the couple insist they are dedicated to their causes and that such negative reports will not derail their efforts. With high-profile events and new projects on the horizon, including ongoing charity work through Archewell, Meghan's team is intent on keeping the focus on their future initiatives.
