Meghan Markle has come under fire for what royal biographer Richard Fitzwilliam described as an “utterly tasteless” decision. The criticism arose after the Duchess of Sussex appeared at Oprah Winfrey’s book club session in California, a move that Fitzwilliam labeled a “dreadful mistake.”
In an interview with GB News, Fitzwilliam expressed his disapproval, saying, “I think it was an absolutely dreadful choice of venue to appear at, especially on a very special anniversary.” He highlighted the fact that the appearance brought back memories of Meghan and Prince Harry’s infamous interview with Oprah, which aired while Prince Philip was hospitalized.
“We know that he died shortly afterward,” he added, further underscoring the sensitivity surrounding the event. Fitzwilliam didn’t mince words, referring to the Oprah interview as “like exploding a nuclear weapon in the courtyard of Buckingham Palace.” He pointed to the fallout, especially Queen Elizabeth’s understated yet sharp response: “What is remembered is the Queen’s comments. ‘Some recollections may vary’ sums it up very well. But that was an absolutely tasteless place to be seen.”
He further commented on Meghan’s friendship with Oprah, noting, “We know that Meghan and Oprah are friends, but to be seen in a place which brought back memories of that interview on that anniversary is just extraordinary.” Fitzwilliam expressed particular surprise at the timing, given Meghan’s history with the event and the emotions it stirred within the royal family.
Coinciding with this controversy, Netflix announced the release date and title of Prince Harry’s upcoming polo segment, which happened to align with a significant update from Kate Middleton. On the same day, Kate shared the news on Instagram that her cancer treatment had concluded, adding another layer of complexity to the public’s perception of the timing of Meghan and Harry’s activities. Markle’s appearance at the event, in light of the infamous Oprah interview, has been met with widespread scrutiny, with many questioning the appropriateness of the timing.