The Unbreakable Bond: Meghan Markle and Patrick J Adams' Extraordinary Friendship Journey, Beyond 'Suits'

Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams developed a strong connection when they portrayed love interests on not one, but two occasions. Surprisingly, many fans are unaware that their initial pairing took place during the filming of a pilot called Good Behavior back in 2008.

"When we first worked together on Good Behavior, there was a sense of discomfort as we tried to get to know each other. However, while working on Suits, we realized the importance of forming a quick friendship," Adams recalled in a 2013 interview on Larry King Now.

Adams and Markle were chosen to play the roles of Mike Ross and Rachel Zane, respectively, on the television show Suits in 2011. Their characters' love story quickly blossomed, culminating in their marriage in the seventh season. Mike and Rachel's wedding also marked the end of both actors' time on the show. As for Markle, she retired from acting before her wedding to Prince Harry.

"I have had the privilege of portraying Meghan's television partner for a significant portion of a decade, which uniquely qualifies me to express this sentiment: Your Royal Highness, you are a fortunate man, and I am certain that your lifelong journey together will be filled with immense joy, productivity, and laughter," Adams conveyed through an Instagram post in November 2017, extending his congratulations to Harry on his engagement. "Meghan, I am so thrilled for you, my friend. Sending you much love."

Adams and Markle remained in touch even after her entrance into the royal family. "Following the birth of our children, there were occasional text exchanges and exchanges of gifts. However, I admit to feeling somewhat hesitant [to reach out to her]," he disclosed in a profile for the Radio Times in October 2020, referring to his two daughters with his wife Troian Bellasario and Markle's two children with Harry. "There is a certain fear within me when it comes to breaking down any barriers that may exist in order to engage in a conversation."

Despite some hesitations to reach out to Markle, Adams has frequently defended her from acting criticism and bullying allegations.

Scroll down to revisit their friendship in photos:

Credit: Usa Network/Netflix/Kobal/Shutterstock

Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams' Sweetest Friendship Moments Through the Years: 'Suits' and More

Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams sparked a close bond after costarring as love interests — twice.

The actors were initially paired for a pilot called Good Behavior in 2008, which some fans may not be aware of. Adams reflected on their first collaboration during a 2013 interview on Larry King Now, mentioning the initial discomfort of getting to know each other and how they quickly realized the importance of becoming friends when working together on Suits.

Adams and Markle joined the cast of the TV show Suits in 2011, playing the roles of Mike Ross and Rachel Zane. Their characters quickly developed a romantic relationship, and eventually got married in season 7. This wedding also marked the final episode for both actors on the series. Markle, in particular, decided to retire from acting before her marriage to Prince Harry.

In November 2017, Adams took to Instagram to congratulate Harry on his engagement to Meghan. Having worked closely with her on the show for many years, he expressed how fortunate Harry is to have her as his partner. He also wished them a lifetime filled with joy, productivity, and laughter, sending his love to Meghan as well.

Adams and Markle maintained communication even after she joined the royal family. In an October 2020 interview with the Radio Times, Adams shared that they exchanged texts and gifts after the birth of their respective children. However, he expressed apprehension about reaching out to her, fearing the obstacles that may hinder their conversation.

Nevertheless, Adams has consistently supported Markle against negative remarks about her acting and accusations of bullying.

Scroll down to revisit their friendship in photos:

Credit: Dutch Oven/Kobal/Shutterstock

2011

Suits debuted in June, with Adams’ Mike being trained by paralegal Rachel after he was hired as an attorney at firm Pearson Specter Litt.

Credit: Billy Farrell Agency/Shutterstock

2012

Adams and Markle joined costars Rick Hoffman, Sarah Rafferty, Gina Torres and Gabriel Macht at the “Suits Story Fashion Show” on June 12 in New York City.

Credit: Courtesy of Patrick J. Adams/Instagram

2013

Adams frequently honored Markle via his Instagram during their tenure on Suits, capturing many pics of the actress hanging out when the cameras stopped rolling.

Credit: Courtesy of Patrick J. Adams/Instagram

2013

Adams and Markle posed for a June selfie between Suits takes in the rain.

Credit: Usa Network/Netflix/Kobal/Shutterstock

2017

According to Adams, Meghan and I were particularly close due to our shared status as the youngest members of the cast, as well as our limited experience in the industry. As the show progressed, we developed a bond and grew together. There was an inherent understanding that it was time for both of us to move on, although it was never verbally acknowledged. In the final few episodes that we had the pleasure of filming, we simply relished in the joy and fulfillment of the moment.

"We both acknowledged our inevitable departure, which heightened the significance of every scene we filmed. Our experience was truly enjoyable as we could find humor even in moments that may have usually tested our patience with the show. Those instances transformed into anecdotes that allowed us to share a laugh and reflect on the incredible madness this project had become."

Credit: Courtesy of Patrick J. Adams/Instagram

2017

Adams and Markle, as TV love interests, frequently sat next to each other during Suits table reads.

Credit: Ian Watson/USA Network

2018

The Suits season 7 finale, which aired in April, treated dedicated fans of the legal drama to the heartwarming union of Rachel and Mike, as they exchanged their vows before embarking on a new chapter together in Seattle, where both had secured their dream positions in the legal field.

Credit: Shutterstock

2018

Just one month after fans witnessed the on-screen wedding of Rachel and Mike, Markle gracefully walked down the aisle as a bride, surrounded by her Suits family.

Adams, accompanied by his wife Bellasario, humorously commented on Instagram a few days prior to the wedding, suggesting that Markle might not be simply running errands like getting milk, referring to a newspaper headline about the upcoming celebrations.