The event was attended by dignitaries, including President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, along with various celebrities known for their outspokenness and activism. Backstage, Queen Latifah apparently confronted Meghan, expressing her discontent with Meghan's controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey earlier in the year. In that interview, Meghan had accused the royal family of racism and mistreatment. According to sources, Meghan attempted to engage in a friendly conversation with Queen Latifah, but the rap legend was unreceptive.
Queen Latifah reportedly admonished Meghan, stating that she was a disgrace not only to the royal family but also to the black community. She asserted that Meghan had no place at the Kennedy Center Honors, branding her a liar, manipulator, and fame-seeking opportunist who had betrayed her husband, father, and country. Reportedly, Queen Latifah pushed Meghan away and firmly told her to leave. This encounter left Meghan shocked and hurt, struggling to hold back tears as she walked away. She felt deeply insulted by someone she had admired and respected.
Despite her emotional turmoil, Meghan composed herself before rejoining her husband, Prince Harry, and the other guests. Prince Harry, who had accompanied Meghan to the event and had been supportive of her claims and decisions, was apparently unaware of the altercation. He was seen smiling and applauding the honorees, including Queen Latifah, during the ceremony. Meghan chose not to disclose the incident to Harry, not wanting to disrupt his mood or create a scene.
Unfortunately for Meghan, her ordeal did not end with the confrontation. She faced further criticism and backlash from other guests and the media, who questioned her motives and credibility for attending the event. Instead of gaining sympathy and support from the American public, Meghan encountered cold stares and whispers from fellow guests who viewed her as an unwelcome intruder and troublemaker. Additionally, she was criticized by the media, accused of using the event as a publicity stunt and attempting to overshadow the honorees.
In the midst of all this, Meghan faced harsh public scrutiny and backlash, with some questioning her intentions and actions. The situation seemed to escalate further with negative comments and sentiments towards her.