A Royal Nickname: Prince Philip’s Unique Moniker for Meghan Markle

A Surprising Comparison

Royal circles are often abuzz with tales and trivia, but one story stands out — the late Prince Philip had a special nickname for Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex. This nickname wasn’t just any term of endearment but one laden with historical weight, comparing her to Wallis Simpson, another American who married into the royal family under controversial circumstances.

Echoes of the Past: Wallis Simpson and King Edward VIII

Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American, changed the course of British royal history by marrying King Edward VIII, who abdicated the throne in 1936 to be with her. Their marriage prompted a crisis in the monarchy, mainly because royals were then forbidden from marrying divorcees, a rule that stood until 2002. Following their marriage, Edward and Wallis lived in exile, often stirring public debate with their actions, including a notorious visit to Nazi Germany.

Prince Philip’s Insightful Observation

According to royal biographer Ingrid Seward, Prince Philip saw striking parallels between Meghan and Wallis, leading him to dub Meghan as the “Duchess of Windsor” — though, notably, he never used this nickname in her presence. Seward explains in an interview with GB News and her book ‘My Mother and I’ that Philip’s nickname was a nod to the perceived similarities in the dynamics of both couples. Although not meant as flattery, this nickname highlighted Philip’s sharp sense of judgment and his perception of Meghan’s influence within the royal family.

Royal Reactions Differ

While Prince Philip was wary of Meghan, suspecting that she might disrupt the royal status quo, Queen Elizabeth II reportedly held high hopes for her. This difference in perspectives within the royal household underscored the complex dynamics at play as Meghan integrated into the royal family.

Meghan and Harry’s New Life

After a whirlwind period as frontline royals, Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, stepped back from their royal duties in 2020, choosing to settle in California. This move was aimed at carving out a more peaceful existence away from the relentless public scrutiny that marked their time in the royal spotlight. Despite their physical distance from the UK, Harry continues to engage with British public life, such as attending the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. However, Meghan has often opted to stay back in the US, citing safety concerns and a desire to avoid further controversy.

Meghan’s Calculated Absences

Meghan’s selective participation in royal events, including her absence from King Charles III’s coronation, is a testament to her new approach to handling her public persona and her interactions with the royal family. Her decisions appear to be strategically aimed at maintaining her safety and peace of mind amid ongoing public interest and commentary on her personal and public life.

In sum, the story of Prince Philip’s nickname for Meghan Markle offers a glimpse into the complexities and nuances of royal relationships and perceptions, highlighting how history often casts a long shadow over the present.