Meghan Markle Could Win Back Public Favor After Fresh Revelations About Father
Meghan Markle's recent personal upheaval could be a turnaround in public perception.
When Meghan Markle left the UK in 2020 amid an intensely negative public perception, it felt as if that would permanently be the status quo. The years that followed only earned her further criticism. However, the horrifying revelations of the past week might just change things around for her.
For years, Markle was blamed for cutting off her father, Thomas Markle, and keeping him away from her grandkids. But it became clear why she did what she did after the recent scandal. After her official statement, many were confused about why Thomas wasn’t investigated in 2019 or why she stayed silent for years. However, as more details about how the Met Police handled the allegations have emerged, public empathy for Markle has increased. And this change in perception could really encourage the public to reconsider their opinion of her.
Sussex supporters have attributed the criticism levied against her to racism, sexism, or both. However, writing for the BBC, Sean Coughlan mentioned not knowing “the authentic person behind the polished Brand Meghan” could have also played a part in her lack of popularity. She has always portrayed her life to be “idyllic” on social media. But the recent scandal has revealed that she also has a “messy” and “imperfect” backstory, and that might earn her some credit.
“For the British public, Californian Meghan hasn't always translated well. But perhaps this complex, still developing story - and the light it sheds on previous years - might mean there's a more rounded view of her in the future,” Coughlan wrote. However, he further warned it could still be an “uphill struggle” to become popular beyond “her own vocal, core group of supporters”.
A YouGov survey this month showed that around 22% of people held a favorable view of Markle, as opposed to 49% who did not. “That suggests there is still some way to go before Meghan fully wins the trust of the public. Fascination, yes. But affection, not always,” Coughlan wrote. Markle and Prince Harry had a triumphant outing in Nottingham earlier this month. Crowds had gathered to see them and even brought along flowers and gifts. That could be a positive sign for the Duchess of Sussex’s future in the UK.
Despite the upheaval in her personal life, Markle has been taking jubilant strides on a professional front. She recently launched As Ever’s holiday collection and her first-ever Advent Calendar. The former Suits star might head to Australia soon to judge Junior MasterChef.
