Speculation surrounding Meghan Markle's rumored memoir is mounting, with royal experts suggesting it could serve as a powerful tool for the Duchess of Sussex if she decides to revisit the controversies of her time with the British royal family. Meghan, who has largely kept a low profile regarding royal drama since her tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey and a Netflix documentary series, could still hold significant influence through her alleged diary, according to veteran royal correspondent Jennie Bond.
"It's more than two years since she gave that interview, and she has steered clear of controversy about the royal family since," Bond said, referencing the explosive Oprah interview that aired in 2021. "Obviously, the journal she mentioned will remain a potential weapon in her back pocket if she ever feels the need to seek some sort of revenge," Bond continued, adding that Meghan has "behaved with discretion and dignity ever since Oprah and the documentary series." The potential memoir, therefore, could be a ticking time bomb that Meghan could use at any moment, especially if she feels wronged.
The concept of Meghan writing a memoir is not entirely new. She has hinted at it in the past, and during an interview with The Cut in 2022, Meghan alluded to finding an old journal that she kept during her time as a working royal. "You go back, and you open drawers, and you're like, 'Oh my gosh. This is what I was writing in my journal there,'" Meghan had said, suggesting that there may be content that could provide further insight into her struggles within the royal institution.
Roya Nikkhah, Royal Editor at The Sunday Times, added that Meghan's remarks in interviews have often been laced with subtle threats, which could signal that the Duchess might indeed have more to say. "The thinly veiled threats that came in Meghan's interview with The Cut-I think she probably hopes they feel threatening to the royal family," Nikkhah said. She highlighted Meghan's statement that she has "a lot to say until I don't" and her emphasis on never signing anything restricting her from speaking, viewing these as strong hints at the potential for future revelations.
However, Bond believes Meghan might be more focused on her future rather than dwelling on the past. "I think she is looking forwards, not backwards, and is moving on with her life," Bond noted. "So I don't think we should be raising false alarms about any potential memoir." This perspective aligns with Meghan's recent public appearances, where she seems to be focused on rebranding herself and shifting her public persona towards a more independent identity outside of the royal narrative.
Reports have emerged that Meghan and Prince Harry are attempting to redefine their public image following their challenges in Hollywood, which saw some projects struggle to gain traction. Meghan has been focusing on her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, and her aspirations to become a figure of influence in the United States, often referred to as "American royalty." This move is seen by experts as part of her attempt to create an identity that stands apart from her role within the British monarchy.
Dr. Robi Ludwig, a psychotherapist, said Meghan's ultimate aim appears to be to establish herself as a powerful and admired public figure, independent of her husband, Prince Harry. "Whether this will be successful remains to be seen, as the public has not always been receptive to many aspects of her character and personality," Ludwig told an outlet. Meghan's appearance at the Children's Hospital L.A. gala earlier this month-wearing a striking red dress that some observers saw as a statement of power and confidence-demonstrated her attempts at re-establishing herself in the public eye.
"Wearing red is a powerful, boss-lady color," Ludwig explained. "It says, 'I'm here, I'm not hiding, and I'm ready to assume my position of power.' The 'red dress effect' studies found that red enhances the male gaze and encourages men to find women wearing red more appealing. In fashion, red is also considered a power color that represents strength and determination."
Meghan's current trajectory seems to suggest a pivot towards focusing on her own brand and future ventures rather than rehashing old royal grievances. But her critics-and perhaps even some within the royal institution-remain wary that the journal she alluded to could still find its way into a memoir, should the need or desire arise. The potential for such a book leaves the door open for further tension between Meghan and her in-laws, even as she appears to be building a new path.
