Meghan Markle’s journey from the bright lights of Hollywood to the regal palaces of the United Kingdom and her subsequent ventures post-royalty is nothing short of captivating. Her career evolution has been diverse, groundbreaking, and frequently in the public eye, often acting as a reflection of her multifaceted identity and deep-seated ambitions.
The Hollywood Days
Meghan’s introduction to the world of entertainment came early, as she grew up in Los Angeles with a father who worked as a lighting director on popular television sets. Meghan herself took the first significant step in her acting career with minor roles in TV series and films, with appearances in ‘General Hospital’, ‘CSI: NY’, and ‘Horrible Bosses’.
However, it was her role as Rachel Zane on the popular legal drama ‘Suits’ that elevated her to stardom. Meghan starred in the show for seven seasons, from 2011 to 2017. The character of Rachel was not just a paralegal; she was an ambitious, intelligent, and nuanced individual, mirroring the very essence of Meghan herself.
The Royal Chapter
In 2016, Meghan’s life took a dramatic and well-publicized turn when she began dating Prince Harry. By 2017, the couple was engaged and living in London, and in 2018, they had a lavish wedding ceremony at Windsor Castle, drawing attention from millions around the world.
As the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan undertook royal duties and engagements, working on issues close to her heart, such as gender equality, education, and the arts. She and Prince Harry became patrons to numerous organizations and charities, using their platform to shed light on various global issues.
Yet, Meghan’s time as a royal was not without its challenges. The British press’s constant scrutiny and often negative portrayal took a toll on her mental well-being. Meghan’s struggle with the tabloids became an essential part of her narrative, revealing the dark underbelly of fame and the challenges of navigating the traditional British monarchy as a biracial, divorced, American actress.
The Post-Royal Era
In 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry took a bold step by deciding to step back as senior members of the Royal Family. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter for Meghan, both personally and professionally.
The couple moved to the US and quickly set about establishing their brand. They founded Archewell, a non-profit organization aimed at “uplifting and uniting communities—local and global, online and offline—one act of compassion at a time.” Simultaneously, Meghan’s voice grew louder on issues such as women’s rights, racial equality, and mental health.
In addition to their charitable endeavors, Meghan and Harry signed multi-million dollar deals with Spotify and Netflix, aiming to produce content that gives hope and inspires. Meghan’s return to the entertainment industry, albeit in a different capacity, is a testament to her adaptability and desire to utilize platforms that amplify her voice and vision.
Furthermore, Meghan penned a children’s book titled “The Bench,” which draws inspiration from the bond between her husband and son. Her foray into writing illustrates her determination to branch out and explore new mediums of expression.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
Meghan Markle’s career has never fit neatly into a single box. She has seamlessly transitioned from being an actress to a duchess and then to a global advocate and content producer. Through each phase, she has remained unapologetically herself, often challenging the status quo and breaking barriers.
Her journey has inspired many, particularly women and people of color, by showcasing the possibility of redefining oneself in the face of criticism and societal expectations. As Meghan continues to chart her course, her career stands as a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying true to one’s beliefs and values.