Expert Calls Queen Most Influential Royal, Meghan Markle Most Inspirational Royal
She compared Meghan’s popularity to that of the late Princess Diana.

The Queen still holds the title of most influential royal, but it’s Meghan Markle that’s the most inspirational, according to lawyer and activist Dr. Shola Mos-Shogbamimu in an exclusive chat with The Daily Express.
“I don’t think Meghan is a past royal,” she said. “She’s still royal, as she’s married to the Duke of Sussex, who is the grandson of the Queen – so she is absolutely still royal. Is she inspiring? I think so. Let me break it down this way. I think some of Meghan’s inspiration comes from her and how she’s handled all this. Clearly, she got to a point where she was like ‘Forget you all, I deserve better than this.’ But most so is the reaction she has been able to generate from people who would not normally talk about these things. Black and brown women are standing together in solidarity with Meghan because the same things happen to us. It’s on a larger scale for Meghan because she’s got the global eye amplified to her. But what they are doing to her is what they do to us, too.”
Dr. Shola compared Meghan’s popularity to that of her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, saying “I think that she’s been able to generate the kind of support that no other member of the Royal Family, bar Princess Diana, has been able to generate. She’s also been able to relate to members of society from a place of people who were not born rich, went to school, and worked hard. Meghan was an independent woman and a millionaire before she met Harry. Therefore, they weren’t giving her anything that she didn’t already have. So I would definitely say that Meghan, in 2022, is the most inspirational royal.”
While the most influential royal title goes to the Queen, Dr. Shola said, it’s Meghan that takes the inspirational title – right down to inspiring her husband, Prince Harry.
“I think Harry probably wanted to do more and wanted more flexibility,” she said. “Meghan being in his life gave him the wings he needed to fly.”
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. We're known for our award-winning features, thoughtful essays and op-eds, deep commitment to sustainable fashion, and buzzy interviews and reviews. Reaching millions of women every month, MarieClaire.com is an internationally-recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
Netflix's 'North of North' Transports Viewers to the Arctic Circle—Meet the Cast of Inuit Indigenous Actors
The new comedy follows a modern Inuk woman determined to transform her life.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
Princess Beatrice's Husband Pays a Rare Tribute to These Royal Family Members on Instagram
Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi shared some behind-the-scenes snaps from the F1 Grand Prix in Bahrain.
By Kristin Contino
-
Allow Kathy Bates to Convince You to Grow Out Your Grays
One look at her new style and you'll be canceling your root touch-up pronto.
By Ariel Baker
-
One of Princess Diana's Most Iconic Dresses Is Going Up for Auction—And Its Expected Price Will Shock You
Julien's Auctions tells 'Marie Claire' that one famous dress could potentially break records.
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
-
Royal Sources Give Update on "Distant" Relationship With Prince Harry and King Charles
Insiders close to the Duke of Sussex have revealed whether there is a chance at reconciliation in the near future.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Alleged "Olive Branch" Prince Harry Offered to Kate Middleton and Prince William During U.K. Visit
The Duke of Sussex's decision was reportedly an effort "to make peace."
By Amy Mackelden
-
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
-
Lip Reader Reveals the "Disapproving" Comment Queen Elizabeth Allegedly Made During Kate Middleton and Prince William's Wedding
She reportedly had lots of nice things to say, too.
By Amy Mackelden
-
The Special Gift Princess Lilibet Received From "Papa" Prince Harry in Meghan Markle's Latest Instagram Post
"Made with love."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Royal Expert Shares Why King Charles Had to Be "Very Careful" and "Couldn't" Meet Prince Harry During U.K. Visit
"It could actually bring down a court case."
By Amy Mackelden