Meghan Markle has reportedly distanced herself from using her royal title, making it clear she prefers to be addressed simply as "Meghan" rather than "Duchess."
According to the Daily Mail, the Duchess of Sussex made the request during her much-anticipated guest appearance on MasterChef Australia, which aired on Sunday. The episode was filmed during Meghan and Prince Harry's tour of Australia in April.
Meghan stepped in as a guest judge while regular judge Andy Allen was on paternity leave. While introducing the surprise guest, host Poh Ling Yeow expressed her excitement before warmly welcoming Meghan with a hug. Unsure how to address her, Poh asked, "Welcome. Do I call you Duchess?"
Meghan quickly responded, "Oh, call me Meghan. Absolutely, yeah."
Earlier concerns over being described as "royalty"
The reported request follows earlier claims that Meghan was unhappy with promotional material describing her as "royalty."
According to the Daily Mail, Meghan was reportedly "frustrated" after a promotional clip for MasterChef Australia referred to her as "royalty." An insider claimed that Meghan and her team had specifically requested that the word "royal" not be used in relation to her appearance.
The source added that the mother of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet was uncomfortable being described as royalty.
Meghan reflects on returning to Australia
During the episode, Meghan also shared her affection for Australia, recalling the memorable visit she and Prince Harry made nearly eight years ago.
"Oh, we're so excited. We love Australia. We had the most sentimental, amazing time. We were here almost eight years ago. We announced we were pregnant with Archie at the time. So, it's full circle, here we are, but thrilled to be here with all of you and taste some really good food. I've heard you've been cooking up a storm this season," Meghan said.
Fans note contrast with previous comments
Meghan's decision to decline the use of "Duchess" has surprised some royal watchers. The moment has drawn comparisons to an earlier incident on her Netflix series, when actress Mindy Kaling referred to her as "Markle." Meghan responded at the time by saying, "You know I'm Sussex now," prompting widespread discussion among royal fans.
