Meghan Markle was ‘taken aback’ by Harry’s less ‘royal’ life than William, Royal author Robert Jobson

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, reportedly struggled with Prince Harry’s standing within the Royal Family when their relationship began in 2016. According to royal author Robert Jobson, Meghan was surprised by the treatment Harry received compared to his brother, Prince William.

In his writings, Jobson reveals that during Meghan’s early visits to London, she quickly noticed the stark difference in how the two brothers were perceived and treated within the royal hierarchy. This realization became particularly evident during an informal gathering at the London apartment of Prince William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales.

“When they went to have drinks at William and Catherine’s palatial apartment, she was apparently ‘taken aback’ at the disparity between the brothers,” Jobson wrote. Although Meghan understood William’s prominent position as the heir to the throne, she believed that Harry, being a royal prince as well, should have been afforded more materially. The difference in their statuses within the family hierarchy did not sit well with her.

Jobson further elaborated, stating, “She was piqued by the disparity.” This sentiment echoed Harry’s own feelings about his position within the Royal Family, as he too was conscious of the differences in their living conditions.

Harry himself addressed this issue in his memoir Spare, published in 2023, where he reflected on the experience of bringing Meghan to his residence at Nottingham Cottage in Kensington Palace. The modest size and simplicity of the cottage left Harry feeling embarrassed, particularly in comparison to the grandeur typically associated with royal residences.

“I was excited to welcome Meg to my home, but also embarrassed. Nott Cott was no palace,” Harry wrote, candidly expressing his feelings about the situation. This acknowledgment highlights the discomfort both Meghan and Harry felt about their perceived standing within the royal institution, even as they prepared for their wedding.

These insights offer a glimpse into the early days of Meghan and Harry’s relationship and the challenges they faced as they navigated the complex dynamics of the Royal Family. The disparity between the brothers and the perceived lack of material wealth became a point of contention, setting the stage for the couple’s eventual decision to step back from their royal duties.