Tom Bower’s latest book reveals Meghan’s dissatisfaction with her royal status and strained relationship with the Beckhams

A new book by journalist Tom Bower claims that Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was unhappy with her position within the British royal family and aspired to be the “new Princess Diana.” According to Bower, Meghan was particularly displeased with being “subservient” to her sister-in-law, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, the future Queen.

In “House of Beckham,” Bower also explores the breakdown of Meghan and Prince Harry’s relationship with the Beckham family. The book alleges that Meghan was “irritated” upon discovering that the Beckhams were wealthier than her, challenging her perceived social ranking within her celebrity world.

Bower claims that Meghan’s frustration grew after a successful royal tour in Australia, where she began to see herself as Diana’s successor. However, her dissatisfaction with the royal hierarchy persisted, contributing to her and Harry’s eventual departure from royal duties.

The book also details how Meghan’s initial friendship with Victoria Beckham began to deteriorate in 2017 over media leaks. Meghan reportedly became “furious” after an article in The Sun highlighted their growing friendship, leading to further strain.

Analysis:

Political Analysis: Tom Bower’s new book, “House of Beckham,” presents a narrative that continues to shape the political landscape surrounding the British royal family. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s departure from royal duties has been a point of contention, raising questions about the monarchy’s adaptability and modernity. The book’s claims about Meghan’s dissatisfaction with her role highlight internal royal dynamics that reflect broader issues of governance and tradition. Meghan’s perceived need to challenge the established hierarchy within the family resonates with ongoing debates about the monarchy’s relevance and the pressures faced by its members to conform to longstanding protocols. This scrutiny is intensified by the couple’s influence in political discourse, particularly regarding topics like racial equality and mental health, where their personal experiences amplify broader societal issues.

Social Analysis: Meghan Markle’s reported aspirations to become the “new Princess Diana” signify the enduring impact of Diana’s legacy. Diana was adored for her humanitarian efforts and relatability, and Meghan’s attempt to emulate her highlights the societal expectation for royal women to possess similar attributes. Meghan’s experiences reflect societal pressures regarding image and behaviour, especially for women in the public eye. The friction with her sister-in-law, Catherine, underscores the competitive nature of public perception and media portrayal within the royal family. These dynamics are not just personal but symbolize the societal fascination with and scrutiny of high-profile figures, especially women, where their roles are often dictated by tradition and public expectation.

Racial Analysis: Meghan Markle’s journey within the royal family is intertwined with issues of race and representation. As a biracial woman, Meghan’s entry into the predominantly white British monarchy was historic and brought to light discussions on racial inclusivity within elite institutions. Bower’s book, by detailing her dissatisfaction and eventual departure, implicitly touches on the unique challenges she faced, which were amplified by her racial identity. The intense media scrutiny and often racially charged criticism Meghan endured underscore the broader societal issue of systemic racism. Her experience sheds light on the difficulties faced by individuals of color in traditionally exclusive spaces, highlighting the need for greater diversity and sensitivity in public institutions.

Gender Analysis: Meghan Markle’s story, as presented in Bower’s book, highlights the gendered expectations placed upon women, particularly those in high-profile roles. The comparison to Princess Diana illustrates how women in the royal family are often expected to embody specific virtues such as compassion, humility, and resilience. Meghan’s reported frustration with her position relative to Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, highlights the competitive and often unequal treatment of women within the royal hierarchy. This situation mirrors broader societal issues where women frequently navigate complex power dynamics and face greater scrutiny than their male counterparts. Meghan’s experiences reflect the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the challenge of asserting individuality within rigid institutional structures.

Economic Analysis: The financial aspects of Meghan Markle’s story, particularly her comparison with the Beckhams, reflect the intersection of wealth, fame, and social status in contemporary society. Bower’s book suggests that Meghan was disillusioned by the realization that her royal status did not equate to the same level of wealth and luxury enjoyed by the Beckhams. This highlights the complex dynamics of social hierarchy where traditional titles and modern wealth often clash. Meghan’s irritation over the Beckhams’ greater wealth underscores the societal obsession with financial success as a measure of status. Her experience reveals the pressures and contradictions faced by individuals who straddle traditional roles and contemporary expectations of success and influence.