"Shame on Everybody": Hillary Clinton Defends Meghan Markle Against Racist Media Bullying
Both Clinton and her daughter Chelsea spoke out in support of Meghan.


While on a promotional tour for her new book with daughter Chelsea Clinton, The Book of Gutsy Women, Hillary Clinton addressed one of the U.K.'s biggest current scandals: the racist media bullying of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex. Speaking to the Sunday Times, both Hillary and Chelsea Clinton supported Meghan's lawsuit against the Mail on Sunday, while condemning the treatment the Duchess has received from the British press.
Hillary told the newspaper, "I’m a huge Meghan Markle fan," adding, "I do want to say that the way she’s been treated is inexplicable." Asked if she thought the media treatment of Meghan was the result of racism, Hillary said, "I think if the explanation is that she’s biracial, then shame on everybody," adding that racism is "certainly part of it."
A post shared by Hillary Clinton (@hillaryclinton)
A photo posted by on
Chelsea Clinton also supported the Duchess of Sussex, saying, "I also think it’s because she proudly had a career first and has a voice that she thankfully continues to use. Anyone who has the temerity to break the mould of what has previously been established and expected often, unfortunately, receives criticism and bile that I don’t understand."
"We’ve seen this pattern repeatedly. I don’t know her, but as someone who respects her, I’m so grateful that she persists, and is unbowed, and is doing work she feels called to do. And also isn’t willing to be bullied," Chelsea said. Of Meghan's lawsuit, she stressed, "You have to do what you feel is right."
Kim Kardashian also spoke out in favor of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex this week, while appearing at the Armenia Technology Convention in Yerevan. "I think that everyone makes their own choices and decisions," Kim said, when asked about Meghan and Harry. "And I think that, like I said, no one's gonna be perfect. I'm not, they’re not. I don't know who is."
"I still love and value the fact they bring such attention to such important movements that need to happen and things that they're really passionate about," Kim continued. "They're still changing the world."
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
RELATED STORIES

Emily Dixon is a British journalist who’s contributed to CNN, Teen Vogue, Time, Glamour, The Guardian, Wonderland, The Big Roundtable, Bust, and more, on everything from mental health to fashion to political activism to feminist zine collectives. She’s also a committed Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Tracee Ellis Ross fan, an enthusiastic but terrible ballet dancer, and a proud Geordie lass.
-
Before Lisa Jewell's Most Highly-Anticipated Thriller to Date Hits Shelves, We Ranked Her 10 Best Books
Few do page-turners quite like her.
By Nicole Briese
-
The 'You' Season 5 Cast Features People From Joe's Past, a New Love Interest, Madcap Twins, and More
Here's what to know about the star-studded final installment of the Netflix hit.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
These J.Crew Sale Finds Basically Packed My Suitcase for Me
I'm ready for my next vacation.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Make Poignant NYC Appearance to Highlight "Heartbreak" No Parent Should Face
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex unveiled a powerful memorial to children lost too soon.
By Kristin Contino
-
Meghan Markle Means Business in a $5,000 Ralph Lauren Linen Suit and Princess Diana's Tennis Bracelet
The Duchess of Sussex delivered spring workwear inspo at the 'TIME'100 Summit.
By Kristin Contino
-
Meghan Markle's Boxed Hair Dye Disaster During the Pandemic Left Her Looking "Elvira-Esque"
"I thought, ‘I'm gonna look just like she does on the box.'"
By Kristin Contino
-
Meghan Markle's White Easter Shirt Dress Is the Ultimate Spring Staple
The Duchess of Sussex wore a breezy button-down style to celebrate the holiday.
By Kristin Contino
-
How Princess Eugenie's Easter Sunday Outfit Takes Style Tips From Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton
From her nude heels to her bodycon dress.
By Amy Mackelden
-
Princess Diana's Close Friend Reveals What She Likely Would Have Thought About Meghan Markle
Richard Kay shared insights on the late royal and what her relationship with Prince Harry's wife could've been like.
By Kristin Contino
-
This Royal Couple Has the Most Pinned Celebrity Wedding of All Time—And a Surprising Royal Wedding Didn't Even Make The List
A new study found this ceremony gave Pinterest users the most inspiration.
By Kristin Contino
-
We Taste-Tested Meghan Markle’s As Ever Jam, Honey and Flower Sprinkles—One Word Kept Coming Up
Women across America gave 'Marie Claire' their thoughts on the Duchess of Sussex's first seasonal drop of products.
By Kristin Contino