Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is reportedly grappling with increasing loneliness as her connections with Hollywood's elite appear to wane. Facing what sources describe as a challenging period marked by isolation, Markle has launched an effort to rebuild her social circle and mend strained relationships. The campaign centers on meticulously curated gift packages filled with her favorite items, including products from her American Riviera Orchard brand, which she hopes will help rekindle old alliances and soften her image.
"Meghan has been meticulously curating gift packages filled with a selection of all her favorite things - and, of course, plenty of her jam - to send to the who's who of Hollywood," an insider shared with Closer. While these packages are intended to boost the profile of her business, they are equally designed to foster goodwill and demonstrate a more personable side to the Duchess. "She's been feeling increasingly lonely recently and wants to concentrate on strengthening friendships," the source added.
The former actress's return to Instagram in March, intended to promote her brand, has not yet translated to retail success for American Riviera Orchard. Despite this, Markle has continued her efforts, sending personalized packages to notable figures such as Kris Jenner, Chrissy Teigen, and Tracee Ellis Ross. The timing of these gestures, just before the holiday season, is seen by insiders as a strategic move to reposition herself in Hollywood's social landscape. "With Christmas around the corner, Meghan sees it as the perfect time to try to rebuild connections and is determined not to start 2025 surrounded by negativity," the source emphasized.
While Markle's social calendar has seen brighter days, with her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry attended by A-listers like Oprah Winfrey and the Clooneys, reports of rifts and fading friendships have become more common in recent years. One such fallout was with David and Victoria Beckham, with speculation swirling after Brooklyn Beckham appeared to distance himself from the Sussexes in a public interview.
The Duchess's recent outreach extends beyond mere gift-giving. According to sources, she has been making overtures to individuals with whom she has had strained relationships, including Kate Middleton, Queen Camilla, and the Clooneys. "She's reaching out to people who aren't necessarily so fond of her," one insider said, emphasizing her desire to foster an atmosphere of "peace and forgiveness" for the coming year.
Yet, Markle's attempts to reconnect may not be universally welcomed. Earlier this year, the Duchess reportedly avoided an uncomfortable encounter with former friend Lizzie Cundy at a charity gala in Los Angeles. "Lizzie was relieved Meghan left the gala early, avoiding what could have been a very icy reunion," a source close to Cundy shared. The incident highlights the difficulty Markle faces in rekindling relationships amid lingering hurt feelings.
Royal commentator Ingrid Seward has weighed in on Markle's predicament, pointing to the Duchess's tendency to abruptly sever ties when relationships sour. "She does something which is very distressing for people. She actually just cuts them off," Seward noted. This approach has reportedly alienated former friends and allies, further contributing to Markle's sense of isolation and feelings of loneliness.
The Duchess's attempts to rebuild her social network come amid ongoing challenges to her public image. Accusations of bullying during her time as a senior royal continue to cast a shadow, despite her denials. "The point is that people are starting to speak out about being unhappy with the way that Meghan is," Seward remarked, suggesting that public sentiment toward Markle has shifted.
Despite facing mounting challenges, Markle remains determined to reshape her narrative and strengthen her connections. Insiders say she views these efforts as a necessary investment in her personal and professional future. "She's willing to spend a fortune and a whole lot of time because she sees it as an investment in her relationships," one source said.
