Expert: Meghan Markle's complaints about being unfairly targeted as a bully could be perceived as 'egocentric whining.'
The Duchess of Sussex discussed her experiences as one of the most bullied individuals globally to a gathering of girls.
Several royal experts have been scratching their heads after Meghan Markle reportedly claimed to be one of the most bullied people in the world.
Vanity Fair interviewed Larissa May, founder of the nonprofit #HalfTheStory, about a personal conversation the Duchess of Sussex had with several teens while visiting the nonprofit Girls Inc. in Santa Barbara, California, on Oct. 2.
May recalled how we discussed various scenarios and Meghan shared her experience of being one of the most bullied individuals globally.
She added, "We had girls wave these little emoji signs and discuss how each scenario would have affected them emotionally."
According to Christopher Andersen, author of "The King," it is likely that the 43-year-old will be labeled a hypocrite after facing her own bullying accusations following her royal exit in 2020.
Andersen stated that since marrying Prince Harry, she has been subjected to harsh criticism, some of which was justified but much of which was not.
"The online anger directed at Meghan is significant," he stated. "If Meghan believes she is being unfairly targeted, she may have a legitimate claim. However, it may not be wise for someone who has been labeled a workplace bully – whether true or not – to claim victimization. It could be perceived as more self-centered whining. We've heard it before."
"He emphasized that Meghan's empathy towards young girls dealing with online bullying is commendable, but she must be careful not to make it about herself."
Andersen cautioned that if the mother of two continues to voice her bullying allegations, it may decrease the chances of the royal family extending an olive branch.
"The amount of visceral anger aimed at Meghan online is quite remarkable. If Meghan feels unfairly targeted, she probably has every right to. But is it wise for someone who has been described as a workplace bully – whether it's true or not – to complain that she is a victim of bullying? It may come off as just more egocentric whining. We've heard it all before." — Christopher Andersen, author of "The King"
"If the royals are paying any attention to Meghan, this bullying complaint will only reinforce the image they already have of her as a self-absorbed narcissist."
Nearly 20 years ago, Samantha Cohen, a Buckingham Palace staffer, was questioned during an investigation into allegations of bullying against the Duchess of Sussex. Cohen departed from her position in 2019, one year prior to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's decision to step back as senior royals and relocate to California.
An investigation was launched at Buckingham Palace in March 2021 following allegations that Meghan had driven out two personal assistants and that staff had been humiliated on multiple occasions while living in Kensington Palace.
The Times of London published the claims about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before their interview with Oprah Winfrey.
When the bullying allegations were made against Meghan, her lawyers denied them, and a spokesperson for the duchess stated that the accusations were simply the "latest attempt to tarnish her reputation."
Meghan revealed that she had suicidal thoughts after joining the royal family and sought help from the palace's human resources department, but was told there was nothing they could do.
Buckingham Palace announced in June 2023 that they had investigated the handling of allegations of bullying against the former "Suits" star by their staff.
Palace officials stated that the independent review's details were not being released to maintain the confidentiality of those involved. After the review, officials announced that the palace's human resources policy had been updated, but they declined to disclose the specific changes.
The Hollywood Reporter recently reported on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's staff, with an unnamed source claiming that Meghan is a "dictator in high heels" who has caused "grown men to tears."
A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex confirmed that Josh Kettler, their former chief of staff, was hired on a trial basis after leaving the position three months ago. The decision to part ways was described as "mutual," with both sides agreeing it wasn't the right fit.
Numerous ex- and present employees have spoken out to Us Weekly in support of the couple and their diligence.
Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that by emphasizing the topic of bullying, she is inadvertently drawing more attention to her own accusations of bullying.
"In contrast to the British royal family's approach, the family elevates important causes by allowing others to share their stories. They listen, ask questions, and campaign for these causes, highlighting the individuals involved."
Schofield asserted that the royal family has ceased all engagement with Meghan in terms of relationship.
"Schofield claimed that Meghan campaigning against bullying would inspire laughter around the palace corridors, as it takes some audacity."
"Schofield believes that Meghan's decision to speak out carries risks. If Meghan continues to promote the victim narrative, others may come forward and accuse her of treating them unfairly."
Hilary Fordwich, a British royals expert, advised Planet Chronicle Digital that Meghan's objective should have been to offer "encouragement and support" rather than seeking the limelight.
Fordwich claimed that the royal family is likely to view her actions as another attention-seeking attempt.
Helena Chard, a British broadcaster and photographer, stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that there is a thin boundary between acting benevolently and promoting oneself.
"Meghan Markle hopes to lead anti-bullying efforts, but this is ironic given the bullying accusations she has faced. The pot calling the kettle black comes to mind."
"Meghan's persistent bullying drove various members of her staff out of their jobs, according to Chard. Buckingham Palace conducted an investigation using an outside legal team, but the results have been hushed up, leaving an air of uncertainty. As a result, Meghan may always be known as a bully."
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""Authenticity is a crucial element of successful leadership, but Meghan is perceived as a hypocrite, which could harm all aspects of her life," Chard stated."
Meghan has shared her personal experiences with online bullying since leaving the royal family.
Being open about experiencing pain or trauma is part of the healing journey, as I believe, said she during an interview with CBS Sunday Morning in August.
She acknowledged that she only scratched the surface of her experience, but she believed that no one should feel that way or make those plans. Additionally, she wouldn't want anyone else to not be believed.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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