Meghan Markle is reportedly outraged by James Middleton's newly released memoir. James, the younger brother of Catherine, Princess of Wales, has penned a book celebrating his beloved dog, Ella, and the profound impact she has had on his life. However, it’s not the canine tales that have captured Meghan's attention; rather, it’s James’s recounting of a significant encounter involving his sister Catherine and Prince William that has drawn her ire.
This retelling seems to challenge the narrative that Meghan shared during her widely publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey. In James Middleton's book, he portrays a close-knit and warm royal family, which appears to contradict Meghan’s previous description of a more reserved and distant environment.
Middleton’s account includes an informal family gathering where he first introduced his now-wife to Catherine and William, who reportedly arrived casually with their children in tow. According to James, the interactions between Catherine, William, and his partner were relaxed and friendly, suggesting a family that is familiar and approachable.
In contrast, Meghan's recollection of her initial meeting with the royal couple was formal and somewhat stiff, emphasizing Catherine and William's perceived lack of warmth. She described herself as underdressed, appearing in ripped jeans and bare feet. Meghan expressed that Catherine and William remained formal and aloof during their first encounter, which added to her sense of unease.
Sources close to the Sussexes indicate that Meghan feels James Middleton’s narrative undermines her own story, making it seem less credible or accurate. In his book, Catherine and William are depicted as welcoming and informal, leaving Meghan's contrasting account in a precarious position. This perceived slight has reportedly upset both Meghan and Prince Harry, who believe that James Middleton's version was intentionally included to challenge Meghan's credibility.
The clash between these two accounts is further complicated by Prince Harry’s reaction during the Oprah interview. Although he was present, he did not explicitly contradict Meghan’s recounting of the meeting, but his body language and expressions suggested possible dissonance. Observers noted that Harry appeared uncomfortable at times, leading to speculation about whether he fully endorsed Meghan’s version of events.
James, who has kept a relatively low profile compared to his famous siblings, seems to have struck a nerve with his memoir. Known primarily for his business ventures and passion for animals, he has largely stayed out of the limelight. Yet, with this latest memoir, he has inadvertently become entangled in the ongoing saga of Meghan and Harry’s strained relationship with the royal family.
The timing of James's memoir could not be worse for the Sussexes, who are already facing a barrage of negative press and scrutiny regarding their credibility. Meghan and Harry may be particularly sensitive to any accounts that contradict their version of events or cast them in a less favorable light. For Meghan, who has often emphasized the emotional toll of her time within the royal family, this perceived contradiction feels like a personal attack.
As of now, it remains unclear if Meghan or Harry will address James Middleton’s book publicly or opt to let the matter settle quietly. However, given the Sussexes' history of speaking out, it wouldn’t be surprising if they eventually share their thoughts on the issue, either directly or through trusted channels.
