Kate Middleton tried to assist Meghan Markle in adapting to royal life, but the former Suits actress reportedly showed little interest, according to a source close to the situation. This refusal to conform allegedly led to tension between the two duchesses.
"Anyone who marries into the royal family has to adjust, but Meghan seemed to think she didn't need to change, and that angered Kate," the insider stated.
Meghan, 41, and Harry, 38, eventually left their royal duties and moved to the U.S., placing added pressure on William, 40, Kate, 41, and the late Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September 2022 at age 96. This turn of events convinced Kate that Meghan intended to undermine the royal family. "She will never forgive her for it," the source added.
"Kate tried to welcome Meghan despite their initial awkward meeting," the source noted. "Kate's motto has always been, 'Just smile and do your best.' She would guide Meghan on proper etiquette and point out any missteps."
However, Meghan appeared unreceptive to Kate's advice, leaving the Duchess of Cambridge feeling unheard. "It might have been a culture clash, but Kate felt that Meghan wasn't truly listening to her," the insider remarked.
Tensions escalated when Harry made critical statements about the royal family in his memoir, Spare, and shared anecdotes about Kate and Meghan. "Kate was taken aback by Meghan's casual attitude," the source said. "It seemed that Meghan either hadn't bothered to learn about the royal family's customs or had simply disregarded them."
Kate was reportedly hurt by these revelations about life within the palace. "Kate would never publicly complain about her difficulties. It's not her style," the insider explained. Kate also took issue with the claims Harry and Meghan made in public, including allegations of racism within the royal family.
"Kate would never discuss the accusations publicly, but she's privately refuting them as lies," the source shared.
As reported earlier, Harry will reunite with his family for King Charles III's coronation on May 6, but Meghan will remain in California with their children. The source suggested that if Meghan were to attend, she would have been "forced to sit at the back," adding, "if she can't be the center of attention, she doesn't want to be involved."