Meghan Markle’s reputation as the “Duchess Difficult” isn’t just a sensational tabloid nickname—it’s a title reportedly earned through a series of explosive tantrums and belittling behavior that have left former staff members shaken, according to a new exposé by The Hollywood Reporter.
Staff who once worked closely with Meghan have finally broken their silence, revealing a portrait of a demanding and relentless diva, wielding power in ways that have left grown men in tears. The report describes Meghan as a figure of authority who exerts her influence with ruthless precision, leading to emotional distress among those who worked for her.
Sources close to the couple have painted a vivid picture of Meghan marching through her home like a high-heeled dictator, issuing orders and dismissing anyone who dared to cross her. One insider even recounted an incident where Meghan reportedly reduced a seasoned professional to tears.
These revelations are surfacing as Prince Harry approaches his 40th birthday, a milestone that should be filled with joy but may instead be overshadowed by a sense of isolation. Insiders suggest that Harry, feeling increasingly alone in the United States, has developed a close bond with his security guard, David Langdown, whom he reportedly considers his best friend.
The exposé by The Hollywood Reporter forms part of a broader investigation into the mass exodus of staff from the Sussexes’ inner circle. Josh Kettler, the couple’s former Chief of Staff, who lasted only three months in his role, resigned in August, joining a growing list of former employees who have left the Sussex household. Meghan’s alleged tantrums, along with her angry 5 a.m. emails, have earned her the title of “Duchess Difficult,” a nickname that has quickly become the stuff of legend among staff members.
Meghan’s reputation for creating chaos is not a new phenomenon. Prior to Meghan and Harry’s relocation to California, she faced allegations of bullying palace staff, which led to a formal inquiry into her behavior. Despite strong denials from Meghan’s camp, the claims of mistreatment, particularly toward personal assistants, left some staff members feeling deeply traumatized. Their emotional distress was likened to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Adding to this troubling picture, recent reports from The Mail on Sunday revealed that Meghan’s PR advisor, Christine Shermer, quietly left her role at the end of last year. Shermer’s departure came shortly after Kettler’s resignation, raising further questions about the Sussexes’ ability to maintain a stable team. These exits have cast a spotlight on ongoing issues with managing staff, suggesting that the turmoil surrounding Meghan and Harry is not just a public relations spectacle but a genuine crisis in leadership.
The speculation surrounding the Sussexes doesn’t end there. Rumors are swirling that Netflix, despite earlier promises, may never release the tell-all documentary about Meghan. It seems that the streaming giant is content to watch Meghan struggle amid failed product launches and the cancellation of her “Archetypes” podcast. Insiders suggest that Meghan’s own behavior is doing more to damage her public image than any external factors. There are also whispers that the royal family holds a considerable archive of Meghan’s outbursts, courtesy of Jason Knauf’s document dump during her lawsuit with The Mail on Sunday. This potential treasure trove of records and recordings allegedly showcases a disturbing paper trail of Meghan’s conduct, further fueling the notion that her public meltdowns are not just dramatic episodes but part of a larger pattern of self-destructive behavior.
In an ironic twist, Meghan’s recent attempts to re-enter royal circles have only worsened the situation. The royal family, well-versed in handling difficult personalities, seems to have taken a cautious approach by quietly ignoring Meghan’s outbursts and avoiding the media spotlight. Meghan’s inability to charm her way back into royal favor serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting consequences of her actions. Her continued estrangement from the royal family highlights the enduring impact of her behavior, both behind closed doors and in the public eye.