Meghan Markle's Acting Return Under Royal Scrutiny For Seemingly Upstaging Prince William's Event
By Favour Adegoke on November 7, 2025 at 7:45 PM EST
Meghan Markle is returning to acting, filming a new movie for Amazon MGM Studios, her first role since marrying Prince Harry in 2018.
Playing a version of herself alongside stars Brie Larson and Lily Collins, the duchess's comeback has drawn mixed reactions.
Some experts call it a "vanity project," while noting that Meghan Markle's latest move does not sit right with the royal family, especially as her comeback coincided with Prince William's Earthshot trip.
Meghan Markle's Hollywood Comeback Described As A 'Vanity Project'
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, is returning to Hollywood as an actress for the first time since joining the royal family after her marriage to Prince Harry.
Now, while some experts view Meghan's latest move as a natural next step for her since stepping down as a working royal, others believe it could come with risks.
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich described her latest move as a "vanity project," suggesting it arrives at a time when Meghan's public image has struggled.
"She has to make a pragmatic pivot given the rock-bottom position she's in, polling-wise," Fordwich told Fox News Digital, adding that Hollywood has yet to fully embrace her.
Fordwich continued, "It's highly doubtful U.K. audiences or the royal family will care about this latest move. They're probably more relieved that she's not overtly bashing them."
Royal Expert Claims The Duchess's Film Comeback May Have Upstaged Prince William's Earthshot Trip
Weighing in, royal commentator Kinsey Schofield, host of "Kinsey Schofield Unfiltered" on YouTube, suggested that Meghan's timing, coinciding with Prince William's trip to Brazil for the Earthshot Prize, may have quietly ruffled feathers within the palace.
Schofield pointed out that Meghan's appearance on a film set during William's high-profile event likely didn't go "unnoticed" by senior royals, adding that the royal household has become familiar with a "pattern of Harry and Meghan retreating from the spotlight for months, only to reemerge during William's major moments."
According to Schofield, the timing of Meghan's reported cameo has "raised eyebrows far beyond royal circles," sparking speculation over whether the news leak was coincidental or a deliberate distraction from negative press.
"The only way this cameo will work for Meghan is if the movie is successful," she added. "And she presents herself in a self-deprecating manner, showing she can laugh at her own image and reputation."
Meghan Markle's Hollywood Return Could Redeem Her Image If She Embraces Humor, PR Expert Says
Meanwhile, Doug Eldridge, founder of Achilles PR, offered a more optimistic take, suggesting that Meghan's small-screen return could actually help reshape public perception and lean into what she does best.
He explained that the move could work best if Meghan leans into humor and self-awareness, by portraying "an over-the-top caricature of herself — one that amplifies all the criticism and stereotypes surrounding the duchess."
Such an approach, he noted, "would show both humility and self-awareness, while giving a humorous wink to fans and critics alike."
The New Movie Provides' Organic Publicity' For The Duchess Of Sussex
Eldridge further noted that with Meghan's recent projects winding down and most media attention focused on tabloid speculation, "it makes sense to take on a low-risk acting role like this."
"It's a smart move. The role doesn't seem like a heavy lift in terms of providing a convincing, dramatic performance," Eldridge explained.
The PR expert added, "It also changes the focus of her attendant media coverage. The role provides organic publicity and extends coveted eyeballs and interest for her lifestyle brand."
Meghan Markle Radiates Joy As She Returns To Film Set In Los Angeles For New Project
As the new project takes off, Meghan has been spotted back on set in California. The Duchess of Sussex was photographed in high spirits on Wednesday in Los Angeles, flashing a wide smile as she waved to crew members during the shoot.
Dressed in a breezy white-and-navy pinstripe shirt paired with a flowing white linen maxi skirt, Meghan completed the effortless look with brown sandals and chic sunglasses.
She accessorized with her beloved Cartier Love bracelets and the Cartier watch once owned by Princess Diana.
At one point, Meghan was seen stepping into a sleek Range Rover, which whisked her away to a hillside estate where she filmed a poolside scene.
According to an insider who spoke to the Daily Mail, Meghan has been "swamped with offers" since stepping away from royal duties, but this particular project "felt right."
The source added that Harry fully supports her decision, knowing how much being back on set "brings her joy."
