Harry and Meghan’s Netflix docuseries, released in December, spans six episodes exploring their relationship—from how they met to their royal exit. It also touches on the controversies that pushed them to leave royal life behind. Buckingham Palace declined to comment but reportedly didn’t want the series—or Harry’s memoir Spare and their Oprah interview—to air, especially as they included never-before-seen photos of Meghan.
Meghan Markle’s early life and career
Born in Los Angeles on August 4, 1981, Meghan was introduced to show business early by her father, Emmy-winning lighting director Thomas Markle. She attended Immaculate Heart High School and later Northwestern University, double-majoring in theater and international relations. Though she considered politics, acting remained her passion.
Her first TV gig was as a briefcase model on Deal or No Deal, a role she found unglamorous. She later appeared in General Hospital, Get Him to the Greek, and Remember Me before landing her breakout role as Rachel Zane on Suits in 2011, which she stayed on until 2018.
First marriage to Trevor Engelson
Meghan married producer Trevor Engelson in 2011 after dating since 2004. The wedding, held in Jamaica, was a three-day celebration. But their relationship faltered as Suits took off and Meghan moved to Toronto. They divorced in 2013, citing “irreconcilable differences.” According to biographer Andrew Morton, Meghan mailed Trevor her wedding rings, a move that reportedly devastated him.
Royal life and controversy
Meghan’s past marriage wasn’t widely discussed at the time of her engagement to Prince Harry, though historically, the royal family has been wary of divorcees. The Church of England only formally accepted remarriage for divorced individuals in 2022. While the monarchy has modernized in some ways, Meghan’s divorce and outspoken stance on royal life stirred tension.
Exit from the royal family
Harry and Meghan’s departure marked a new chapter for the monarchy. While other European royals like Denmark’s Queen have made modern moves—such as stripping titles—Harry and Meghan’s decision, followed by public revelations, shocked the royal family. Their docuseries featured previously unseen footage of Meghan’s childhood and family life, and even rare appearances by their children, Archie and Lilibet.
Despite their intention to live a freer life in the U.S., their revelations didn’t sit well with the Firm. But for Harry and Meghan, telling their side of the story was essential.
