In a recent interview with the sunRoyal expert Ingrid Seward has shed light on Meghan Markle’s first overseas tour to Australia with Prince Harry, revealing the experience was a major learning curve for the Duchess of Sussex.
Seward described how the trip, which took place in 2018, was an “eye-opening” moment for Meghan, particularly because it marked her. first real big tour. Reflecting on that moment, Seward explained that Meghan may have been surprised by her role within the royal family, especially in comparison to King Charles and Queen Camilla’s current tour of Australia.
According to Seward, Meghan faced a reality check during the tour. “I think Meghan was shocked after playing the role of the princess, only to discover that she was not the star of the show, but just a cog in the wheel.” Seward commented.
The 2018 tour was monumental for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, especially because Meghan announced her pregnancy during the visit. “Australians were very flattered by that and she played her role brilliantly,” Seward said, adding that at the time, Harry and Meghan were seen as “young and fresh,” bringing renewed energy to the royal family.
However, Seward suggested that Meghan’s experience on the tour was more complex. “I think Meghan didn’t see it that way. I think he enjoyed the adulation. “She liked to play the role of the princess as she saw it.” said the royal expert.
Despite enjoying the public’s admiration, Meghan found it difficult to adapt to the strict protocols of royal life. “But I also think it was a shock. They were telling him what to do, where to go and how to do it. And she wasn’t taking a leading role,” Seward added.
Meghan’s time in Australia, according to Seward, highlighted the difficult balance between royal duties and personal expectations, providing an early glimpse into the struggles that would later shape her and Harry’s decision to step away from their roles as members of high-ranking royalty.