Meghan Markle's initial encounter with Prince William and Kate Middleton allegedly left her astonished by the disparity in their living arrangements, according to royal author Robert Jobson. Markle's surprise may have contributed to the tensions that emerged between the two royal couples.
Meghan Markle's introduction to the British royal family in 2017 reportedly ignited a sense of surprise within her over the lavish lifestyle of Prince William compared to that of her then-boyfriend, Prince Harry. According to royal correspondent and author Robert Jobson, this disparity may have sown the seeds for the tensions that would later unfold between the two couples.
In his book, "Catherine, The Princess of Wales," Jobson details Markle's alleged observation of the inequality between the royal brothers during a private visit to William and Kate Middleton's apartment at Kensington Palace. Jobson writes that Markle was "taken aback" by the contrast between Harry's residence, the modest Nottingham Cottage, and the grand Apartment 1A occupied by William and Middleton.
Meghan Markle's Perception of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions
Jobson suggests that Markle's surprise may have stemmed from Harry's humble living arrangements, which consisted of two bedrooms and one bathroom, compared to William's luxurious 20-room apartment. This perceived imbalance, Jobson argues, could have fostered a sense of discontent within Markle and potentially contributed to the growing rift between the two royal couples.
Markle's reaction to the living arrangements was not rooted in jealousy, according to Jobson, but rather in astonishment at the disparity between the brothers. The author notes that Markle's initial experience may have shaped her subsequent perceptions of the royal family and the treatment of her husband.
Meghan Markle's Perception of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions
Harry's own account of his living situation at the time corroborates Markle's observations. In his memoir, "Spare," Harry expresses embarrassment over his small cottage, describing it as "no palace." This sentiment underscores the marked difference between his and William's living conditions, which may have further amplified Markle's surprise.
After marrying Harry, Markle and her husband moved into Frogmore Cottage, a larger and more luxurious residence. However, the couple's decision to step back from their royal duties in 2020 and move to California has further distanced them from the British royal family and its traditions.
Meghan Markle's Perception of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions
The reported surprise expressed by Markle upon witnessing the living disparity between William and Harry offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics that often play out within royal circles. The tensions that may have ensued from this initial encounter have had lasting implications for the relationships between the royal family members, highlighting the intricate and often challenging nature of navigating life within the monarchy.
