Inside the Intricate Bond Between Princess Kate and Meghan Markle: Revealing the Untold Story

Princess Kate and Meghan Markle's initially strong friendship took a turn when rumors of a rift between them emerged within the royal family. But before Meghan married Prince Harry in 2018, Kate offered her support and advice, assuring Meghan that she could reach out for help with anything, even if it was just to learn about her new team of assistants.

The Princess of Wales greeted the California native with enthusiasm, describing her as a refreshing presence. Meghan, in turn, greatly admires how Kate has successfully balanced her humanitarian work and motherhood.

Despite maintaining a united front alongside their royal spouses, rumors of rivalry between the two women quickly spread. In 2018, reports emerged of a heated exchange before Meghan and Harry's wedding, suggesting that Meghan made Kate cry over Princess Charlotte's bridesmaid dress. Almost three years later, Meghan stated that the opposite was true, but Kate took responsibility and apologized.

Scroll down for an in-depth look at Meghan and Kate’s relationship through the years:

Credit: Samir Hussein/WireImage

Princess Kate and Meghan Markle's Complex Relationship: Everything We Know

Princess Kate and Meghan Markle struck up a strong friendship when they first met in January 2017. However, speculation about a rift between the two started to circulate within the royal family.

Prior to marrying Prince Harry in May 2018, Meghan sought guidance from her future sister-in-law, who offered her assistance in any way she might need, even if it was just to familiarize herself with her new team of assistants.

The Princess of Wales warmly embraced the California native, seeing her as a refreshing presence. This sentiment was reciprocated by Meghan, who greatly admires how Kate has managed to establish her own identity in humanitarian work while also being an exceptional mother.

Although they often present a united front with their royal spouses, rumors of rivalry between the two women quickly began to circulate. In 2018, reports emerged of a heated confrontation before Meghan and Harry's wedding, with claims that Meghan had brought Kate to tears over Princess Charlotte's bridesmaid dress. Almost three years later, Meghan asserted that the opposite had occurred, but Kate ultimately took responsibility and offered an apology.

Scroll down for an in-depth look at Meghan and Kate's relationship through the years:

Credit: Getty Images

When Meghan Met Kate

Harry introduced his then-girlfriend to his sister-in-law and his niece, Princess Charlotte, in January 2017. According to a source, Meghan is thrilled to be getting to know more of Harry's closest family members. The meeting between Meghan and Kate went smoothly and was deemed successful. Meghan's close friend even shared that she had brought a thoughtful gift for Kate's birthday, a Smythson planner. Kate was touched by the gesture and appreciated the little present. Despite being a brief encounter, it was a positive introduction for all involved.

Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Sisters-to-Be

Kate and her husband expressed their joy for Harry and Meghan's engagement in a joint statement on November 27, 2017. Kate later shared with reporters that it was a delight to get to know Meghan and witness the happiness between her and Harry. The couple, along with William, were absolutely thrilled by the news and conveyed their well wishes for the couple's future together. This moment was seen as a time of great excitement and happiness, and Kate and her husband hoped that Harry and Meghan would cherish and enjoy this special occasion.

Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

New Home for the Holidays

The new royal couple was welcomed by the former Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at their residence in Anmer Hall, Norfolk, England. According to a source, "[Harry and Meghan will] be joining William and Kate as their guests, traveling with them back and forth."

Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

The Fab Four

The Fab Four came into existence after their inaugural group appearance at the royal family’s customary Christmas church service at Sandringham on December 25, 2017.

Credit: Getty Images

A Helping Hand

With Kate's pregnancy in its seventh month and her third child, Prince Louis, on the way in February 2017, a royal insider revealed that Meghan, the former actress, played a significant role in supporting Kate during this period. Meghan, who lived at Nottingham Cottage at the time, visited her sister-in-law regularly for tea and guidance. A source disclosed to Us that Meghan would share helpful tips about maintaining a healthy diet, which she had come across through her readings.

Credit: CHRIS JACKSON/AFP/Getty Images

Laughter Abounds

During their first joint royal engagement on February 28, 2018, the two women, along with their husbands William and Harry, had a joyful time and shared many laughs. They participated in the inaugural Royal Foundation Forum in London, under the theme of "Making a Difference Together". Harry expressed his appreciation for the foursome's close bond, highlighting their diverse personalities and the common desire to bring about positive change. Meghan echoed his sentiments by emphasizing the strength of their unity: "Togetherness at its finest."

Credit: PAUL GROVER/AFP/Getty Images

Blossoming Friendship

From the beginning, Kate made it explicitly clear that she would be a valuable asset for Meghan as she assimilated into the world of royalty. According to a friend of Meghan's, the Suits alum was informed by Kate that she should never hesitate to contact her if she ever needed assistance. This included seeking guidance on her new team of aides. In response, Meghan exerted additional effort to gain Kate's approval.

“She greatly admires Kate's ability to successfully balance her humanitarian work and parenting, finding her to be a refreshing influence," a source disclosed. Meanwhile, Kate felt that the L.A. native was like a revitalizing breeze. By March 2018, their connection had evolved into what a source described as a "strong and delightful friendship."

Credit: ONATHAN BRADY/AFP/Getty Images

First Signs of Trouble

Meghan became a member of the royal family after her marriage to Harry at Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018. However, their journey wasn't without challenges. Following a dress fitting for Charlotte, who was chosen as their bridesmaid, Kate was rumored to have been upset, causing tension between the sisters-in-law.

Almost three years later, Meghan addressed the situation during her tell-all interview with Harry on CBS in March 2021. Contrary to reports, she denied that she made Kate cry and asserted that the opposite occurred. According to Meghan, there was a desire to construct a narrative of a hero and a villain in the media.

Credit: Clive Mason/Getty Images

Girls' Club

On July 14, 2018, it was a delightful sight to witness the joint presence of the two women at the revered Wimbledon in London. Together, they radiated joy, beaming identical smiles while seated next to each other, extending their unwavering support to Serena Williams, a dear friend of Meghan.

Credit: Getty Images

Supportive Sister-in-Law

In October 2018, news broke that Meghan and Harry were expecting a baby, and Kate was fully supportive. An exclusive source revealed to Us at the time that William and Kate were thrilled for the couple. Being experienced parents themselves, they expressed their eagerness to assist Meghan and Harry in any way they required throughout the coming months.

The mother of three also expressed her excitement to fans about the latest member of the royal family in Leicester, England, on November 27, 2018, while paying tribute to the late football club chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. "Having all the children together and a cousin for George and Charlotte, as well as Louis, makes it a truly special time."

Credit: aul Grover- WPA Pool/Getty Images

Double Date Nights

The Fab Four double dated at both a Remembrance Day ceremony on November 10, 2018,  and the annual Royal Foundation Dinner at Victoria House in London on November 15, 2018.

Credit: Getty Images

The Rumor Mill Churns

Speculation of a feud arose when it was announced in November that the former Deal or No Deal contestant and founder of the Invictus Games would be relocating to a larger home in Windsor, England, approximately 30 miles away from Kate and William. An insider dismissed the rumors, stating that while they may not be the closest of friends, there is no animosity between the two women. Both of them face immense pressure, stress, and constant scrutiny, creating a bond that cannot be broken. Another source confirmed that there is no conflict between Kate and Meghan, even revealing that they are part of a group text conversation.

Credit: Samir Hussein/WireImage

Playing Things Up for the Camera

Following months of feud speculation, the two duchesses were seen together attending a pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace on December 19, 2018. They later spent Christmas Day at St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham for mass, where they displayed closely connected body language. Meghan, in particular, placed her hand on Kate’s back at one point, a gesture identified by body language expert Bianca Cobb as a manifestation of her maternal instincts. According to Cobb, this action signifies comfort, reassurance, and an increased bond between them. By positioning herself slightly behind Kate, Meghan silently conveys her support and loyalty as expected among sisters-in-law.

A source later told Us, “It was obvious Kate and Meghan made an effort to show their warmth on camera.” 

Credit: Samir Hussein/WireImage

All's Well That Ends Well

Being together at Sandringham House in Norfolk, England, during the holidays forced Meghan and Kate to interact, according to a source cited by Us in January 2019. Fortunately, they managed to address their issues and express their past grievances. The insider revealed that Meghan felt ignored by Kate, while Kate admitted to feeling used by Meghan to advance her royal status.

Credit: Javier Garcia/BPI/Shutterstock

Royal Comparisons

An insider revealed in August 2019 that Meghan believed princess Kate had set an extremely high standard. Meghan found it disheartening that the British public held her to that same standard. She felt isolated in the UK, facing harsh treatment from the British media. Meghan expressed frustration at her inability to defend herself and found the situation to be very challenging. Prior to officially leaving the royal family in February 2021, Meghan, who is from Los Angeles, openly discussed the unfair treatment she received from the British press, drawing comparisons to the coverage of Kate.

"If members of my family were to say, ‘Well, this is what we all went through,’ or if they could compare my own experience to what has been shared with them – for example, when Kate was labeled 'Waity Katie' while waiting to marry William," Meghan recollected. "Although I can only imagine how difficult that must have been, I cannot fully grasp what it must have felt like. This is not the same. ... Being rude is not the same as being racist. Furthermore, you also have a press team that publicly stands up for you, especially when they know certain allegations are false. Sadly, that did not happen for us."

Credit: James Gourley/BPI/Shutterstock

Not That Close

According to an insider's statement in September 2019, it was revealed that Kate and Meghan "will never be best friends", however, they maintain a "civil" relationship. Another source also noted that the two women come from "two totally different worlds".

Credit: Shutterstock (2)

Still Sympathetic

In October 2019, during the Harry & Meghan An African Journey documentary, the former actress openly expressed her struggles by stating that she is "not OK." Upon learning of this, a source informed Us that Kate feels distressed witnessing the couple's unhappiness in dealing with the British press. The source stated that Kate sincerely cares about Harry and Meghan's well-being but prefers to avoid getting involved in the drama.

Credit: Shutterstock

"Their decision stems largely from the rift between William and Harry," the source revealed to Us. "With it being Archie's inaugural Christmas, they yearn for an exceptionally memorable celebration.

It will be an intimate gathering, including only Doria and the three of them. The multitude of dramas engulfing the couple has inflicted an immense amount of stress. Currently, they are prioritizing their family above all else."

Credit: Shutterstock

Royal Blindside

Following a disclosure from a reliable source that Kate expressed her desire for her three children to have increased interaction with Archie in 2020, Harry and Meghan unexpectedly revealed their intention to distance themselves from their senior royal positions. Another informer revealed that William and Kate were taken aback by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's decision, finding it particularly hurtful that the announcement was made on the eve of Kate's 38th birthday. Charmingly, our third insider disclosed that Meghan is the driving force behind this significant move.

Credit: Shutterstock (2)

Distant Duchesses

A source told Us in January 2020 that Kate and Meghan “barely speak” anymore. 

Credit: Shutterstock (2)

Post-Exit Status

According to a Us insider, following Queen Elizabeth's announcement regarding the removal of Harry and Meghan's HRH titles, the two duchesses have not had any communication. The source further revealed that Meghan, who is presently in Canada, has expressed a sense of freedom and contentment away from the hustle and bustle of London.

Credit: Shutterstock

The Reunion

In March 2020, Meghan and Kate had their first public encounter in four months at the Commonwealth Day Service. As William and Kate arrived at Westminster Abbey, Meghan, the former actress, greeted them warmly with a smile and a hello. However, there was minimal interaction between the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Credit:

The Book

In August 2020, additional details about the relationship between Kate and Meghan were unveiled in the book Finding Freedom. According to authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, although their initial encounter seemingly went smoothly, the royal reporters disclosed that the two women had little shared interests apart from residing at Kensington Palace.

The book read, “The truth was Meghan and Kate just didn’t know each other that well … Though it was not necessarily her responsibility, Kate did little to bridge the divide.”

Harry and Meghan denied having any involvement in the book, which also claims Kate once avoided a solo shopping trip with Meghan in 2017.

Credit: Joe Pugliese; Shutterstock

The Truth Set Her Free

In an exclusive CBS interview broadcasted in March 2021, Meghan openly discussed her personal encounters with members of the royal family in private and unequivocally dismissed any speculation of discord between herself and Kate.

"The incident involving Kate never actually occurred," Meghan clarified. She explained that the media's portrayal of a "confrontation" prior to her wedding in May 2018 was completely misinterpreted. Meghan revealed that a few days before the wedding, Kate expressed her frustration about the flower girl dresses, which made her cry and deeply hurt her feelings. The week leading up to the wedding was particularly challenging, but Kate took responsibility for her actions, apologized, and even went as far as to bring flowers and write a note expressing her remorse. Meghan emphasized that she shared this experience not to criticize or belittle Kate, but to highlight the importance of holding oneself accountable when causing harm to others.

Meghan reassured viewers that her intentions were never to speak negatively about Kate. She described Kate as a genuinely good person and expressed her belief that the negative dynamics playing out in the media, where people feel the need to choose sides, are unnecessary. Meghan conveyed the message that it is possible to support both her and Kate without harboring any animosity towards either of them.

Credit: Tim Rooke/Shutterstock

Their Silence Speaks Volumes

According to an exclusive source in March 2021, it was revealed that Meghan and Harry hadn't communicated "directly in over a year" following their revealing interview. The tension between the princess and the author of The Bench had escalated due to the ongoing feud between their husbands, as reported by an insider.

“They were never particularly close, but the reason for their lack of communication stems from the strained relationship between Prince Harry and Prince William,” the source revealed at the time. “Over the past year, Harry and William have had minimal communication, and when they do engage, it has been far from friendly. Both brothers harbor genuine animosity towards each other, and unfortunately, this tension has impacted Meghan and Kate’s relationship, making it extremely difficult for them to forge a friendship or even have a cordial dynamic.”

Although the women managed to reconcile after the wedding drama, as mentioned by Meghan in her revealing interview, their friendship never fully blossomed due to their contrasting personalities. “At the beginning of their relationship, Kate and Meghan did get along,” the insider shared with Us. However, “they struggled to find common ground in their day-to-day experiences within the palace.”

Credit: Shutterstock (2)

Bonding Over Lili

In June 2021, Meghan and Harry's second child, a daughter named Lilibet "Lili" Diana, was born. This joyful event provided an opportunity for Kate and Meghan to address their previous conflicts and reconnect through the shared experience of motherhood.

Following the birth of [Lilibet], Kate has been making more frequent contact with Meghan, sending gifts and notes in an effort to nurture their relationship, according to an exclusive source from Us.

In a previous month, the Prince and Princess of Wales expressed their joy about the newest addition to their family through social media. "We are thrilled by the wonderful news of baby Lili's arrival," the couple conveyed in a heartfelt Instagram post. "Congratulations to Harry, Meghan, and Archie."

In August 2021, an exclusive source revealed that there has been a significant improvement in Meghan and Kate’s relationship in the recent months. "Meghan and Kate are currently enjoying a very positive bond and have been keeping in regular contact," shared the informant. "Their relationship was never particularly close in the past, but now they are closer than ever and actively working on strengthening their connection for the sake of the family."

Credit: Shutterstock

Out of Town

Meghan and Harry initially contacted Kate to celebrate her 40th birthday in January 2022. However, by April of that same year, there appeared to be tension between the in-laws once again. During a surprise visit to Windsor Castle in April 2022 to see the queen, Meghan and Harry were accompanied by notable absence of William and Kate. According to an exclusive source, it was revealed that William was coincidentally skiing during Harry and Meghan's visit to Windsor Castle. Now, Harry plans on returning soon in hopes of resolving their issues and seeing William in person.

The U.K. visit was a significant milestone for Harry and Meghan as it was their first time together in London since their royal step back in 2020. Although Kate and William were not present, Charles, the boys' father, reportedly attended the family reunion.

Credit: Shutterstock (2)

Platinum Jubilee Snub

Once again, Meghan and Harry's in-laws kept their distance during their visit in June 2022 to commemorate the queen's Platinum Jubilee. Despite their intentions to reconcile with the family while in the U.K., the couple was unsuccessful.

Royal expert Christopher Andersen shared exclusively with Us at that time, "They had hoped to mend the rifts but faced significant obstacles." He expressed surprise that the couple was not included on the balcony during Trooping the Colour, stating, "I had anticipated that Harry would be present to demonstrate unity and the future of the monarchy. They surely expected a more welcoming reception than they received."

The Brothers and Wives: Inside the Private Lives of William, Kate, Harry, and Meghan author has claimed that during the visit, William and Kate did not put any effort into introducing Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis to [Lili]. According to him, there is still a lot of tension between the couples, and apparently, no one believes they even spoke to each other during the celebrations.

Credit: Kirsty O'Connor/AP/Shutterstock

United in Grief

After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, Kate and Meghan, along with their husbands, William and Harry, came together to grieve as a united front. In a public event organized by William, who is now the next in line for the throne, the four of them joined forces on September 10th, just two days after the queen's demise.

In the town of Windsor, England, the Fab Four was spotted welcoming mourners who had come to pay their respects to the late monarch. This marked the first public appearance where all four of them were present in years.

"For all their past differences, many of which still remain, The Queen's wishes were clear, and William knew it was not the time to hold grudges or distance himself from his brother," a source exclusively told Us. "They needed to present a united front, paying their respects for her sake, as well as for the monarchy and the people she served tirelessly during her reign."

However, it wasn't an easy decision for William to invite Harry and Meghan. "Even though they came together to greet people outside the palaces and view the flowers, there was a noticeable stiffness and formality between the two couples," royal expert Andersen shared exclusively with Us in September 2022. While Charles has shown interest in reconciling with Harry, William may not be as welcoming. "I think he still holds a grudge against Harry at this time," the author explained, noting that Harry and Meghan seemed to still be uncomfortable around their relatives.

Credit: Nariman El-Mofty/AP/Shutterstock

Keeping Their Distance

At the queen's September 2022 funeral in London, the women stood near Queen Consort Camilla, however, the Duchess of Sussex seemed to physically space herself away from them.

According to body language expert Blanca Cobb, Meghan's body language does not suggest a strong connection with the queen consort, Kate, and the children. Cobb noted that Meghan standing behind them may indicate a potential emotional distance. This could be due to Meghan wanting to give them space or needing time for personal reflection. It is common to maintain physical distance when feeling emotionally disconnected from someone.

Credit: Tim Rooke/Shutterstock; Kirsty O'Connor/WPA Pool/Shutterstock

Trailer Tension

Following the release of the initial footage from Meghan and Harry's docuseries by Netflix, an informant informed Us that there was dissatisfaction felt by the Princess of Wales and her spouse regarding what they witnessed. This was particularly disconcerting as the trailer's premiere happened to coincide with their first visit to the United States in a span of eight years. "Kate and William were incredibly puzzled when the Netflix trailer aired while they were in Boston," disclosed the anonymous source. "It has significantly strained relationships that were already on shaky ground."

Credit: Geoff Robinson Photography/Shutterstock

First Meeting

Markle opened up about the awkward first encounter she had with the princess while reminiscing in the Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan in December 2022.

"Even when William and Kate came over and I met her for the first time, they visited us for dinner. I distinctly remember wearing ripped jeans and being barefoot. I've always been someone who enjoys giving hugs, but I soon realized that this was quite unexpected for many Brits," she revealed. "It quickly became apparent that the formality that is projected externally also exists internally. There is a certain way of presenting oneself, and even when you close the door and think, 'Oh, alright, I can finally relax now,' that sense of formality still persists on both sides. It was truly surprising to me."

Credit: Shutterstock

Signs of Trouble

According to Harry's January 2023 memoir, Spare, Meghan's request to borrow some lip gloss seemed to unsettle Kate. "Kate, visibly surprised, delved into her handbag and reluctantly retrieved a petite tube," he recounted. "Meg gently squeezed a small amount onto her finger and proceeded to apply it to her lips. Kate's facial expression twisted in discomfort."

Credit: Pool/ABACA/Shutterstock

The Wedding Drama

"[Kate] had further concerns regarding the manner in which Meg was organizing her wedding," Harry wrote in Spare, alluding to the clash between his sister-in-law and Meghan concerning Charlotte's bridesmaids dress. "It was unbearable — yet short-lived."

The CIO of BetterUp remembered returning home to find his then-fiancée "weeping" after the altercation with Kate. "I was appalled to witness [Meghan] in such distress, but I didn't consider it a catastrophe," he added. "In fact, the following morning, Kate visited with flowers and a card expressing her apologies."

Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

‘No Desire’ to Reach Out

Even after Charles was officially crowned king at his coronation in May 2023, the royal rift still remains.

“Kate has no desire to communicate with Harry nor Meghan,” a source told Us in October 2023. “There has been too much that has happened and she’s not ready yet.”