A former senior staffer at Archewell, the foundation run by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, has finally provided some clarity on long-running rumors about Meghan’s alleged behavior, which includes being labeled a “difficult Duchess” and described as a “dictator in high heels.”
These allegations first gained attention after The Hollywood Reporter published an article claiming that many people were afraid to work with the Duchess. However, at the time, a friend of Meghan’s came out to defend her and dismissed the allegations as unfounded.
Now, Co-editor-in-chief of The Hollywood ReporterMaer Roshan, has added more context to the story during a recent interview with Access to HollywoodIn the interview, Roshan addressed the origins of the nickname “Difficult Duchess” and denied allegations that Buckingham Palace had any role in creating the title.
“Our reporter spoke to a senior source who works for the couple and said, ‘Everyone is scared of Meghan,’” Roshan explained. He went on to clarify: “Difficult Duchess is a moniker that has followed Meghan Markle for quite a few years. What is new is the idea, since she came to America, that a lot of these rumors were fabricated by the Palace. The reporting we did suggests that’s probably not true, and there is still this undercurrent of fear.” Daily Mail reported.
Roshan also offered a balanced view, noting that two things can be true at once: “The couple helps a lot of people,” he said, acknowledging their positive contributions. However, he added“Meghan and Harry declined to comment on our story. I think Meghan would have said that shouting orders is something we expect from men, and that would never raise eyebrows.”
The conversation around Meghan’s nickname reflects the complex perceptions about her since she and Harry stepped back from royal duties and moved to the U.S. Despite constant criticism, the couple have focused on their philanthropic efforts through the Archewell Foundation and media deals, but public scrutiny remains high.
While Meghan has faced persistent rumours about her management style, Roshan’s comments provide some insight into how these perceptions might have played out, signalling that the fear surrounding her might not be entirely palace-driven, as some had suggested.