Meghan Markle – Biography
Early Life and Background
Meghan Markle was born Rachel Meghan Markle on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, California. She grew up in a biracial household—her mother, Doria Ragland, is African American and a former social worker and yoga instructor, while her father, Thomas Markle, is white and worked as a television lighting director. Meghan’s childhood was shaped by her exposure to the entertainment industry through her father’s job, but also by her mother’s influence in social work and wellness. She attended private schools in Los Angeles and later graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in theater and international studies. Meghan’s interest in global issues and storytelling took root during these formative years.
Acting Career and Public Life
After college, Meghan began auditioning for acting roles while working odd jobs to support herself. She landed small parts in TV shows like “CSI,” “Fringe,” and “90210,” but her big break came in 2011 when she was cast as Rachel Zane on the legal drama “Suits.” She played the role for seven seasons, gaining popularity for her performance. Outside of acting, Meghan also ran a lifestyle blog called “The Tig,” where she wrote about fashion, food, and female empowerment. Her growing public profile, combined with her philanthropic interests, began to set her apart from other actresses in Hollywood.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Long before she became a royal, Meghan was passionate about social justice and women’s rights. She worked with the United Nations, World Vision, and other nonprofits, often focusing on issues like gender equality, education, and clean water access. Meghan used her platform to speak out on key issues and was invited to give speeches at international forums. Her advocacy was driven not by image, but by experience and belief. Whether visiting communities in Rwanda or writing essays on female empowerment, Meghan always sought to amplify underrepresented voices.
Royal Life and Global Spotlight
Meghan met Prince Harry in 2016 through a mutual friend, and their relationship quickly became global news. The couple married on May 19, 2018, in a widely-watched royal wedding that symbolized a modern shift in the British monarchy. Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex and began undertaking royal duties, but her time in the royal family was also marked by intense media scrutiny and public pressure. In 2020, she and Harry made the decision to step back from their royal roles and move to North America, seeking a more private and independent life for themselves and their son, Archie. Their daughter, Lilibet, was born in 2021.
Life After Royalty
Following their departure from royal life, Meghan and Harry settled in California and launched Archewell, a nonprofit organization focused on compassionate activism. Meghan also signed production deals with major media platforms like Netflix and Spotify to tell inspiring stories and produce socially-conscious content. She published a children’s book, “The Bench,” and co-produced the Netflix docuseries “Harry & Meghan,” offering a personal look at their experiences. Meghan continues to use her voice to advocate for mental health, gender equity, and inclusive storytelling. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to being a changemaker in and outside of the public eye.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s life has been one of transformation—from actress to duchess to global advocate. Her willingness to speak openly about her challenges and beliefs has resonated with many. Whether navigating Hollywood or royalty, she remains committed to authenticity, advocacy, and using her influence to uplift others. Meghan’s story is still unfolding, but she continues to shape it on her own terms, with compassion and courage at its core.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Meghan Markle known for before becoming a royal?
She was best known for playing Rachel Zane on the TV show “Suits” and running her lifestyle blog, “The Tig.”
When did Meghan marry Prince Harry?
They married on May 19, 2018, in Windsor, England.
Why did Meghan and Harry leave the royal family?
They stepped back from royal duties in 2020 seeking independence and relief from media scrutiny.
What is Archewell?
Archewell is a nonprofit founded by Meghan and Harry focused on compassion-driven initiatives in media, health, and community empowerment.
How many children do Meghan and Harry have?
They have two children: a son, Archie Harrison, and a daughter, Lilibet Diana.