Who Is Meghan Markle?
Meghan Markle is one of the most talked-about women in modern pop culture, known for her dramatic transition from Hollywood actress to British royal to outspoken advocate for equality and mental health. Her journey has captured global attention and sparked conversations around race, tradition, fame, and family.
Early Life and Background
Rachel Meghan Markle was born on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, California. Her parents are Doria Ragland, an African American social worker and yoga instructor, and Thomas Markle, a Caucasian television lighting director. Growing up in a biracial household in LA, Meghan experienced both privilege and prejudice. She attended Northwestern University, earning a double major in theater and international studies.
Acting Career and Breakthrough
Meghan began her acting career with minor roles in TV shows and films, slowly building her portfolio. Her breakthrough came in 2011 when she was cast as Rachel Zane in the legal drama “Suits,” a role she played for seven seasons. Her natural charisma and sharp portrayal earned her recognition, but even during her acting career, Meghan was deeply involved in social causes, including gender equality and clean water campaigns.
Royal Life: Marriage to Prince Harry
Meghan met Prince Harry in 2016, and their relationship quickly blossomed. The couple got engaged in 2017 and married in a globally televised royal wedding in May 2018. Upon marriage, she became the Duchess of Sussex. Meghan took on various royal duties and launched several charitable initiatives, including a community cookbook and various royal tours alongside Harry. However, life within the royal family came with intense media scrutiny and racial bias.
In 2020, Meghan and Harry made the unprecedented decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the royal family. Often referred to as “Megxit,” the move led to their relocation to North America and a shift in focus toward independent ventures. They founded the Archewell Foundation and signed multi-million dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify, producing documentaries, podcasts, and children’s content. Meghan also made headlines with her candid interview with Oprah Winfrey, where she spoke openly about mental health struggles and royal life challenges.
Net Worth
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are worth a combined $60 million in 2025, according to Celebrity Net Worth
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Long before she became royalty, Meghan was passionate about humanitarian work. She worked with the UN Women as an advocate for political participation and leadership, and supported causes related to racial and gender equality. Even after leaving the royal family, Meghan has continued her activism through the Archewell Foundation.
Family Life
Meghan and Harry have two children: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, born in 2019, and Lilibet Diana, born in 2021. They have been intentional about maintaining their children’s privacy while raising them in a more relaxed and inclusive environment. Despite strained relations with the British royal family, Meghan continues to focus on nurturing a healthy and grounded family life.