Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, recently shared her candid reflections on the persistent media attention she and her family experience. In an interview with Emily Chang for Bloomberg Originals' The Circuit, which took place on August 27, 2025, the Duchess, aged 44, articulated the dehumanizing impact of pervasive clickbait culture. She expressed a deep-seated desire for the public to recognize her as a human being beyond the constant stream of headlines.
The former actress emphasized the personal toll that this environment takes, not only on herself but also on her close friends, who are often subjected to negative and fabricated portrayals of her life. She noted that the relentless nature of online content, which frequently prioritizes sensationalism over substance, can lead to a broader erosion of trust in media and a sense of disappointment for audiences.
Despite the intense public spotlight, Meghan maintains a grounded perspective on her life. She highlighted the enduring nature of her friendships, many of which have lasted since her teenage years, and spoke about her active involvement in her children's daily routines, including school drop-offs and pick-ups, as a commitment to normalcy.
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, have established a life in Montecito, California. She described their life there as one that allows for casual social experiences, such as dining out at regular restaurants. The Duchess also voiced her concerns about the impact of public scrutiny on their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, expressing apprehension about them encountering gossip-filled magazines.
Meghan urged the public to consider how they would wish for someone they cared about to be treated, suggesting that greater empathy could significantly reduce public negativity. Her reflections resonate with many parents navigating the balance between public visibility and the desire for a private, nurturing family environment, underscoring the universal importance of family, normalcy, and genuine human connection.