Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has spoken candidly in a recent interview about the challenges of living under constant media scrutiny and the importance of being seen as a real person beyond headlines and public narratives. The conversation, which aired on Bloomberg Originals on August 26, 2025, highlighted her experiences as a mother, entrepreneur, and public figure who continues to navigate life after stepping back from official royal duties.
Speaking About Life Beyond the Headlines
In the interview with journalist Emily Chang, Meghan Markle discussed how she feels frequently dehumanized by negative online commentary and persistent tabloid coverage. She emphasized that behind the global attention, she is first and foremost a mother and a friend, with responsibilities and routines similar to many families.
The Duchess explained that she regularly takes her children to school and participates in daily family life, despite the pressures of public attention. She noted that constant negative portrayals can impact not only her but also her loved ones, who are often exposed to the same narratives.
Her comments are consistent with previous interviews and public appearances, where both she and Prince Harry have addressed the emotional and mental health impact of intense media coverage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to online harassment and negative media attention can contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns — an issue that has been central to the couple’s advocacy for digital well-being.
Addressing Online Harassment and Media Pressure
Markle highlighted the broader issue of online abuse, pointing out that the culture of negativity on social media and in certain press outlets can lead to harmful consequences. Independent research, including reports from the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), has documented the significant levels of targeted online harassment that she has experienced since joining the British Royal Family in 2018.
In line with her long-standing advocacy, Meghan reiterated the need for compassion and respect in public discourse. Rather than demanding privacy in every aspect of her life, she emphasized the importance of being treated with the same decency extended to anyone outside the spotlight.
A Moment of Reflection on Life in the United Kingdom
In addition to speaking about criticism, Meghan shared a lighter, more personal moment during the conversation. She mentioned that one of the things she misses about living in the United Kingdom is listening to the popular radio station Magic FM. Known for playing classic and contemporary hits, the station has long been a staple for many listeners across the UK.
This revelation echoed themes explored in the new season of her Netflix docuseries, With Love, Meghan, where she reflected on aspects of her past life abroad while continuing to build a new chapter in California.
Life After Stepping Back from Royal Duties
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle officially stepped back as working members of the British Royal Family in January 2020, a decision widely covered by reputable outlets such as the BBC and The Guardian. The couple cited their desire for financial independence and a more private life as key reasons for the transition.
In July 2020, a spokesperson confirmed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had purchased a home in Santa Barbara, California, where they have lived with their children since. The move allowed them to focus on charitable projects through their foundation, Archewell, as well as media ventures, including content partnerships with Netflix and Spotify.
While they gained greater independence, the couple has also faced ongoing challenges with media intrusion. In 2020, they filed lawsuits against paparazzi for taking unauthorized photographs of their son using drones, with court documents confirming that they reached a settlement in at least one case. These legal actions reflected their broader stance on protecting their family’s right to safety and security.
Advocacy and Public Work
Beyond their personal journey, Meghan and Prince Harry have continued to dedicate efforts toward public causes. Through Archewell Foundation, they have supported initiatives in mental health awareness, gender equity, and responsible technology use. Meghan has also engaged in projects related to women’s empowerment and storytelling, using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.
Her remarks in the Bloomberg Originals interview align with these broader advocacy goals, highlighting the importance of empathy in both online and offline interactions.
The Emotional Toll of Public Scrutiny
Meghan acknowledged that constant public commentary takes a personal toll, particularly when it affects her children and close friends. She described the experience of being frequently judged and criticized as “dehumanizing” — a sentiment she has shared in prior interviews, including with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, where she discussed her struggles with media pressure and mental health.
Mental health professionals have often underlined the real-world consequences of persistent negative coverage. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), public figures exposed to ongoing harassment or defamation can experience heightened risks of stress, anxiety, and social isolation.
By speaking openly about these challenges, Meghan contributes to a growing conversation about the responsibility of media organizations and social platforms to foster healthier public dialogue.
Balancing Public Role and Family Life
Despite ongoing pressures, Meghan emphasized the importance of prioritizing her role as a mother. She described the daily tasks of school drop-offs and pickups, underscoring that her life, while highly publicized, still includes ordinary parenting responsibilities.
Prince Harry and Meghan have frequently spoken about wanting to raise their children in an environment that allows them to grow up with greater privacy and freedom compared to their royal upbringing in the UK. Their decision to move to Santa Barbara was partly motivated by this goal.
Looking Forward
While the Duke and Duchess of Sussex no longer represent the British monarchy in an official capacity, they remain public figures who continue to generate significant media interest worldwide. Their projects — from documentary series to philanthropic campaigns — continue to attract attention and spark debate about the evolving role of modern public figures outside traditional institutions.
Meghan’s interview serves as a reminder that behind the global headlines is an individual seeking compassion and understanding. By sharing both her struggles and her lighter reflections, she offered a more balanced perspective of life after leaving royal duties.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s candid conversation with Bloomberg Originals is the latest in a series of interviews that provide insight into her life, challenges, and values. By addressing the realities of online harassment, media pressure, and the need for empathy, she reinforces her role as both a public advocate and a private individual.
Her reflections on family life, nostalgia for small aspects of the UK, and dedication to advocacy work paint a picture of someone navigating the complexities of global attention while seeking authenticity.
As discussions about media responsibility, mental health, and public scrutiny continue worldwide, Meghan Markle’s perspective contributes to a broader call for respect, understanding, and the acknowledgment that even the most public figures are, at the core, real people.
