Meghan Markle's ‘Rare Aesthetic' in New Video Leaves Royal Fans Divided: 'Not a Future Queen'
Netizens are at odds after Meghan Markle went viral on TikTok in a clip tied to the platform’s popular ‘rare aesthetics’ trend. A short edit summarized the Duchess’s unconventional journey from a commoner to a Hollywood celebrity to royalty, and then an independent media figure. The video, shared by TikTok user @nina6767676 has sparked intense debate about whether she truly fits the trend.
The clip making rounds on TikTok doesn’t focus on Markle’s appearance. Instead, it's about her ‘aura’ and unique life trajectory. The video has a text overlay that reads: “Rare aesthetic: You grew up lower class, met a royal online, and chose mental health over the crown.” It features a compilation of images, starting with her life as a teenager, her acting career, including photos from her time on the show Suits with her co-star Patrick J. Adams, and her rise to global fame as Prince Harry’s girlfriend and later wife.
The footage also includes photos from her 2018 wedding at Windsor Castle, followed by a yearbook photo and shots from the 2020 Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey, where she appeared in a green dress alongside Harry. The clip went on to highlight her life after stepping back from royal duties. It included a picture of the Sussex Christmas card and scenes from her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan. The viral video was intended to celebrate her decision to step back from her royal duties in pursuit of peace and freedom.
@nina6767676 Diva #meghanmarkle #royalfamily #rareaesthetic #princeharry #harryandmeghan ♬ Succession Theme Song - HBO Max
However, the narrative of the video didn’t land well with everyone. In the comments, critics questioned both the accuracy and the tone of the clip. One user wrote, “Okay, lower class is far fetched, she grew up in the middle class, slightly upper at that.” Another expressed, “Rare aesthetic: using the crown to support your lifestyle.” A third argued: “Over a crown?! What crown?! She was a duchess. The wife of a prince, not a future queen! And they chose money over duty, not mental health.” These responses didn’t fail to reflect a broader skepticism among some royal observers about the driving force behind Harry and Markle’s departure from royal life.
But the Duchess also received a fair amount of support. Many defended her achievements and independence and wrote, “And became a self-made millionaire.” Another added, “Oh, and then get hated on for living a happy life with your family.” One simply said: “And made history.” Another echoed, “My queen.” While the debate continues, the viral moment highlights how Markle’s story, her royal and Hollywood past, and her journey seeking 'authenticity,' is truly a unique one.