Former Butler Reveals the Royal Family’s Preferred Career Path for Meghan Markle in 2026
As per the expert, Meghan's career path with her lifestyle brand is perceived as relatively non-controversial.
For a family accustomed to public backlash, keeping any future headlines predictable may be the quiet hope for 2026 when it comes to Meghan Markle. A royal expert has suggested that the royal family views her lifestyle-focused work as the most comfortable path forward, one that won't spell a PR disaster for the Firm as opposed to her ventures in Hollywood.
The expert argued that the royal family would likely approve of Markle continuing to focus on establishing herself in the lifestyle sector in the new year. Markle has had quite the busy year as she launched her lifestyle brand As Ever at the beginning of 2025. Her Netflix show With Love, Meghan also expanded significantly. The first two seasons were released in March and August, respectively. It was followed by a holiday special in December.
Weighing in on the same, former royal butler Grant Harrold told the Express, “Meghan has placed herself firmly in the foodie and lifestyle place, and I think she’ll be looking to build and grow in this area in 2026... I don’t think we’ll see Meghan launch a fashion or beauty range. While we know they’re areas she’s passionate about, I think she knows it’s vital to build a solid brand before diversifying. While I think we’ll see new products in her current ranges, I think she will stick to the same areas.” Providing further insights into Markle’s long-term strategy, he added, “I think the royal family will hope she continues her work in the lifestyle sphere. It’s what she’s passionate about, and she’s made a real mark. Plus, it can’t really do much harm, and especially nothing like Harry did with his memoir.”
Harrold believes that while there's a chance Markle may pen a book in 2026, it's likely to be a recipe book, one tied to her lifestyle show. Beyond lifestyle projects, reports have suggested Markle is aiming to build her brand. A source speaking to The Telegraph once stated Markle “thinks she’s going to be a billionaire.” The Duchess reportedly believes that the team she has assembled can help her achieve that goal.
Meanwhile, royal journalist Rob Shuter recently revealed on his Substack that Markle is eager to mark the 30th death anniversary of the late Princess Diana with a special biopic. An insider quoted said, “They’ve been meeting with writers, agents, and producers, breaking story and talking casting. Meghan is intensely hands-on and wants control from start to finish.” While the royal family is said to welcome Markle’s relatively drama-free, lifestyle-focused work, her reported interest in such a biopic would have them on the edge.
