Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, nearly revealed her relationship with Prince Harry through a risky Instagram post before the couple officially announced their romance to the world. In a series of subtle yet telling social media hints, Meghan dropped clues about her burgeoning relationship with the British royal that eagle-eyed followers could have pieced together.
One of the most significant hints was a photograph of two spooning bananas that Meghan posted on Instagram, which many interpreted as a playful reference to her new romance. This quirky image, posted in October 2016, shortly after their relationship began, was seen by some as a symbol of her and Harry’s closeness. It was part of Meghan’s tendency to share aspects of her personal life with her followers, often in a veiled manner that invited speculation.
Another revealing moment came when Meghan shared a picture of her wrist adorned with a beaded bracelet. This bracelet was notably similar to one worn by Prince Harry. The matching bracelets were reportedly from their first holiday together in Botswana, a trip that played a significant role in the development of their relationship. During this African getaway, the couple enjoyed safaris and had a memorable encounter with lions, which helped them bond deeply.
Their initial secrecy was deliberate, as both Meghan and Harry wanted to keep their relationship under wraps for as long as possible to avoid the intense media scrutiny that comes with being in the royal spotlight. However, Meghan’s social media activity provided a trail of breadcrumbs that, with hindsight, were clear indicators of her relationship with Harry.
The couple’s relationship was confirmed to the public in November 2016, and it wasn’t long before they were engaged. Their engagement was announced in November 2017, followed by their highly publicized wedding in May 2018 at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. The wedding was watched by millions around the globe and marked the beginning of Meghan’s life as a member of the British royal family.
Life as royals brought its challenges. Meghan, in particular, struggled with the intense media scrutiny and the often-negative press coverage. Despite these challenges, the couple welcomed their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, in May 2019. Their family grew with the birth of their daughter, Lilibet Diana, in June 2021.
In January 2020, Meghan and Harry made the unprecedented decision to step back from their roles as senior royals. This move, often referred to as “Megxit,” saw them relocate to North America, eventually settling in California. Their departure from royal duties was partly driven by their desire for financial independence and a more private life, away from the constant glare of the British tabloids.
Despite their intentions for a quieter life, Meghan and Harry have remained in the public eye. They have launched various ventures, including multi-million dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify. However, these ventures have not been without their challenges. Their Spotify deal ended prematurely, and Harry faced criticism over an award nomination that many felt was undeserved.
The couple has also been outspoken on various social and political issues, often attracting both praise and criticism. Their activism and willingness to speak out on issues such as mental health, racial equality, and media ethics have ensured that they remain significant figures in public discourse.