Prince William is reportedly angered over Meghan Markle's recent public nod to his late mother, Princess Diana, intensifying already strained relations between the Sussexes and the royal family. According to sources cited by Radar Online, the Prince of Wales was particularly upset when Markle appeared on social media wearing a purple Northwestern University sweatshirt, reminiscent of one Diana famously wore in 1996.
"Meghan and her husband, the Duke of Sussex, have definitely ruffled some feathers in the Royal Family! I mean, her attempts to channel Princess Diana's style? On the surface, it doesn't seem that bad, but you won't believe how it's got under William's skin!" a source told the outlet.
Markle's public references to Diana have drawn significant online backlash, with social media users pushing the hashtag #MeghanMarkleAmericanPsycho. The insider added, "Now, this latest tribute to Diana's fashion sense has ignited some serious drama online... William is seething."
The prince, known for his deep protectiveness over his mother's legacy, is said to be particularly frustrated by what he perceives as Markle's repeated attempts to link herself to the late Princess of Wales. "He can be sensitive when it comes to anything relating to his beloved mother. It's pretty clear he's wishing Meghan would just let Diana's legacy rest in peace," the source stated.
The controversy extends beyond Markle's fashion choices. The Sussexes have repeatedly invoked Diana's memory in their public and business ventures. In their 2022 Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan, an image of Diana was shown in Prince Archie's nursery, with Markle telling her son, "Hi, Grandma. That's Grandma Diana."
Markle has maintained that her references to her late mother-in-law are made out of respect and admiration. However, the source claimed that including these tributes in promotional content-such as her newly launched lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her Netflix series With Love, Meghan-has opened her up to criticism.
The timing of Markle's latest project launch has also drawn scrutiny. Her lifestyle brand was hastily renamed As Ever after her initial trademark application for American Riviera Orchard was reportedly rejected by the U.S. trademark office. The brand, which had included limited-edition jam jars sent to celebrities, failed to gain traction, prompting the rebranding effort just before the debut of her new Netflix series.
Markle's connection to Diana has been a recurring theme throughout her time in the public eye, often fueling debate about her motives. While she has repeatedly emphasized admiration for the late princess, critics argue that her continued references are more strategic than sentimental.
