Duchess Meghan Markle Makes Acting Comeback in Amazon MGM Studios Comedy 'Close Personal Friends'

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has officially made a significant return to the entertainment industry, signing on for a new comedic venture from Amazon MGM Studios. This project, titled “Close Personal Friends,” marks her first major acting role since she stepped away from her senior royal duties back in 2018. The transition from royalty back to Hollywood is highly scrutinized, making this announcement a major talking point across the media landscape. Before marrying Prince Harry and becoming a member of the British Royal Family, Markle was widely recognized for her successful seven-season run portraying the character Rachel Zane in the popular legal drama series “Suits.” Her participation in this feature film signals a notable shift back toward her original professional roots and a willingness to engage with the creative world she left behind.

Production for “Close Personal Friends” is currently underway in Pasadena, California, capturing the quintessential West Coast atmosphere. The film is being helmed by director Jason Orley, working from a script masterfully penned by Isaac Aptaker. Sources close to the production have indicated that Markle will be appearing as herself in the comedy, lending an element of meta-humor and reality to the narrative. The ensemble cast features several other high-profile names, ensuring strong box office appeal, including Brie Larson, Lily Collins, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding. The comedic premise is built around the awkward and humorous intersection of two distinct couples—one highly recognizable to the public and the other relatively unknown. Their paths cross in unexpected ways, leading to a series of relatable yet chaotic encounters, particularly as the story unfolds against the stressful backdrop of California's annual tax season.

Industry observers view this involvement as a strategic and cautious re-entry into acting following a substantial hiatus that began prior to her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. Experts suggest that while the role itself may be brief or a cameo, Markle’s decision to accept the part is highly symbolic. It indicates a potential reprioritization of her career focus towards creative endeavors, moving beyond documentary production and podcasting. This decision has been met with full support from her husband. Crucially, sources close to the couple confirm that Prince Harry is completely supportive of his wife’s choice to pursue work that brings her personal satisfaction and joy, reinforcing their commitment to supporting each other’s professional ambitions outside of the royal sphere.

This move back into the demanding world of film complements her recent activities in the broader media landscape. Just recently, in early 2025, she launched her highly anticipated lifestyle series for Netflix, “With Love, Meghan,” demonstrating her continued engagement with major streaming platforms. The highly anticipated premiere of the comedy “Close Personal Friends” is slated for 2026. This timeline allows ample opportunity for public interest to build and focus on the next phase of the Duchess’s professional trajectory. With projects spanning lifestyle content and feature film comedy, the stage is set for what could be a full-fledged career revival in Hollywood, cementing her status as a multi-faceted media personality.