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The Duchess of Sussex is denying accusations of bullying during her time as a working member of the royal family, days before her interview with Oprah is due to air.
The timing seems very convenient.
A new article in The Times has alleged that Markle’s behaviour at the palace led to a written complaint in October 2018 by the couple’s former communications secretary, who claimed Markle “drove two personal assistants out of the household and undermined the confidence of a third staff member.” The complaint also alleged that several palace staffers were bullied by Markle and were often reduced to tears by her “unacceptable” behaviour. The palace has said they are now investigating all claims.
A representative for Markle denied all of the claims to The Times, and, unsurprisingly, questioned the timing of the article. Buckingham Palace would certainly not be welcoming of the fact that two former, very senior, members of the royal family would sit down for a ‘tell-all’ interview about their time in the palace – and one which will be watched by millions.
“Let’s just call this what it is — a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation,” the statement for Markle read. “We are disappointed to see this defamatory portrayal of the Duchess of Sussex given credibility by a media outlet.
“It’s no coincidence that distorted several-year-old accusations aimed at undermining the duchess are being briefed to the British media shortly before she and the duke are due to speak openly and honestly about their experience of recent years.”
In an additional statement to People, the representative said Markle was “saddened by this latest attack on her character,” especially as “someone who has been the target of bullying herself and is deeply committed to supporting those who have experienced pain and trauma.”
“She is determined to continue her work building compassion around the world and will keep striving to set an example for doing what is right and doing what is good.”
While senior royal sources apparently told the Daily Mail that the palace did not orchestrate the release of the complaints, Buckingham Palace declined to comment to the Times. They have since responded. On Wednesday, the palace announced in a statement that they are “clearly very concerned” about the allegations levelled by Meghan and Harry’s former staff and will be launching an investigation into them.
Shortly after the news broke that the palace was investigating claims of bullying, a new clip of her forthcoming interview with Oprah
Winfrey was released in which Markle said the palace is “perpetuating falsehoods” about her and Prince Harry.
In the clip, Markle was asked by Oprah how she felt about the palace hearing her “speak her truth today”.
“I don’t know how they could expect that, after all of this time we would still just be silent if there is an active role that the Firm is playing in perpetuating falsehoods about us,” she said. “And if that comes with risk of losing things I mean – there’s a lot that’s been lost already.”
The full Oprah interview will air this Sunday, March 7th.