In a recent episode involving the British royal family, Meghan Markle became the focus of media attention after posting a video from the backseat of a limousine during her surprise visit to Paris. The footage, which showed her lounging comfortably with her feet resting on the seat in front, was part of her attendance at a Balenciaga show. However, the post was deleted from her Instagram Stories within 24 hours.
While the location was not explicitly identified, many viewers speculated that she was near the Pont d’Alma Tunnel, the site of Princess Diana’s tragic death in 1997. This emotional connection led to a wave of online criticism, with some labeling her post as “tasteless” and “disrespectful.” Critics argued that sharing such content in a place associated with profound sorrow was inappropriate.
Mixed reactions to the footage
Following the backlash, opinions regarding Meghan’s intent differed significantly. Some commentators suggested that the duchess did not intend to draw parallels with her mother-in-law, while others were less forgiving. Renowned royal biographer Richard Fitzwilliams expressed his disapproval in an interview with the Daily Mail, describing the posting as “utterly bewildering” and “insensitive beyond belief.” He conveyed his confusion over Meghan’s thought process, stating, “I don’t understand what on earth she was thinking. Well, she can’t have been thinking.”
The support of Prince Harry
In contrast to the criticism aimed at Meghan, sources close to Prince Harry indicated that he stood firmly by her side after the incident. Reports from People magazine suggested that Harry is committed to protecting his wife from media scrutiny, especially concerning issues related to his mother’s legacy. A friend of the couple shared with the Daily Mail that Harry felt “hurt and upset” by the backlash regarding Meghan’s video, emphasizing that she was not even near the tunnel, and referred to the controversy as “a joke, but not a very funny one for Harry.”
Meghan’s Paris trip and further drama
Meghan’s trip to Paris, which she undertook alone while Harry remained in Montecito, turned into a complicated promotional effort. Tabloid reports highlighted additional drama arising from another video, which showed Meghan sitting next to her friend Markus Anderson. In this footage, she appeared to cover her face with her hand, prompting speculation about her reaction to a model who stumbled during the show. A commentator on GB News suggested that Meghan was laughing at the incident, but her representative clarified to the Mail that her reaction was not directed at the model.
Impact of Princess Diana’s legacy
This incident highlights the sensitive nature of Princess Diana’s memory and its ongoing relevance within the royal family narrative. The contrast between Meghan’s lighthearted video and the backdrop of a location associated with such tragedy raises questions about the responsibilities of royal family members. As public opinion remains divided, it is evident that any gesture connected to Diana is met with scrutiny, illustrating the lasting influence of her legacy on contemporary royal affairs.