- Some people might have been surprised by Meghan Markle's difficult experience in the royal family, but her father-in-law, Prince Charles, was reportedly not among them.
- According to royal author Nigel Cawthorne, Charles probably foresaw Meghan having trouble finding her place in the royal family.
- "In truth, however, there wasn’t a lot he could do apart from offering moral support," Cawthorne said of how Charles handled Meghan joining the royal family.
Meghan Markle has definitely not had the easiest time since joining the royal family—and, frankly, that's putting things very, very mildly.
While Meghan may not have realized the extent of the struggles she would face as a member of the royal family, her father-in-law, Prince Charles, may have foreseen some issues for the Duchess of Sussex—at least according to one royal author.
Speaking to The Sun, royal expert Nigel Cawthorne, author of Prince Andrew, Epstein and the Palace, explained that Charles probably saw at least some of Meghan's royal struggles coming.
"I think he [Prince Charles] likes strong women, but in The Firm there is only room for one Queen," Cawthorne said. "I think he foresaw considerable problems ahead for The Firm. Harry and Meghan amplified the popularity of the royal family in the way that Prince Andrew and Fergie did at the time."
Cawthorne reiterated something others in Charles' inner circle have suggested about the royal exit, saying that the heir to the throne probably didn't oppose the move since it was in line with his longtime goal of keeping the monarchy small. The royal author stressed, however, that Charles "genuinely made an attempt to support what Harry and Meghan were looking for as long as it wouldn’t upset other HRH’s."
At the end of the day, Cawthorne doesn't think there's much Charles could have done to prevent the struggles Meghan (and, by extension, his son, Prince Harry) faced in the royal family, even if he did see them coming to a certain extent.
"In truth, however, there wasn’t a lot he could do apart from offering moral support," he added. "He no doubt personally regrets the fact that he won’t see his son and family as much as he otherwise would have. He likes tradition and order."
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.
RELATED STORIES
-
Suki Waterhouse Cements Her '70s Darling Status in the Yeti Coat TrendThe British pop-rock princess truly met her match in this shaggy vintage-inspired style.
-
These Royals Could Step Up to Help Prince William When He's King "If He Calls on Them"Three members of the Royal Family are likely to pitch in with duties down the line.
-
Why King Charles "Refuses" to Give Kate Middleton Advice About Becoming Queen"For much of the same reason, Camilla has not felt compelled to speak with Kate about what it's like to be queen."
-
Meghan Markle Is Pushing the Premiere of Her Netflix Series Due to the Los Angeles WildfiresMeghan requested that Netflix delay the release "as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California."
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Hugged Victims of the LA Fires During Surprise Appearance in Pasadena"No one knew they were serving food with masks."
-
Princess Kate Isn't Always "Well Enough" for Royal Duties, but She's Learning to "Pace" Herself"She is looking after herself and is wise to do so," a family friend shared.
-
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Issue Statement on California's Devastating WildfiresThe Sussexes addressed the disaster, which is "affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life."
-
Meghan Markle Shares Her Most Personal Instagram Post Yet—Including Rare Glimpses of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet—After Their Beloved Dog Dies"Thank you for so many years of unconditional love, my sweet Guy. You filled my life in ways you’ll never know."
-
Meghan Markle's Actual Kitchen Isn't Featured in Her Netflix Show—Here's What We Know About Her Real HomeThe Sussexes seem to favor a muted color scheme.
-
Why Prince Andrew Has Been Reported to the Police Over a Fake Name and Business VentureGet ready to meet the royal's alter ego, "Andrew Inverness."
-
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Daughter Lilibet Has Already Entered Her "Princess Phase"The Sussexes are very "down-to-earth" parents, according to a family friend.
