The late Prince Philip is said to have had a rather caustic nickname for Meghan Markle, a detail that shines a light on his perceptions of the Duchess of Sussex, according to royal observers.
Despite his passing in 2021, Philip’s opinions on Meghan have become a topic of conversation, especially given the similar paths both she and Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, took as American divorcees joining the royal fold.
Royal commentator Ingrid Seward has shared that Prince Philip harbored reservations about Meghan, likening her traits and situation to those of Wallis Simpson, who famously shook up the royal establishment in her time.
Philip’s unease reportedly manifested itself through a moniker for Markle, which he never directly communicated to her.
During a segment on GB News, Seward reflected on Philip’s astute nature and noted: “He was clever about people and often sought the good within them.
Yet, there was an undeniable connection he perceived between Meghan and Harry, and Edward and Mrs.
Simpson.”
She went on to reveal that he often referred to Meghan as “The Duchess of Windsor,” although it was never said to her face.
Instead, insiders sometimes abbreviated it to “DoW,” linking it directly to Wallis.
In her writing, specifically in her book, *My Mother and I*, Seward elaborated on Philip’s cautious stance.
She wrote, “From the very beginning, he was one of the few who didn’t readily fall for Meghan’s charm offensive.
The moment he sensed her resemblance to Wallis Simpson, he started calling her DoW.”
This gives fans an intriguing peek into how the late Duke of Edinburgh viewed this contemporary member of the royal lineup.
Furthermore, Seward highlighted that Philip labeled Meghan as ‘disruptive’ to the royal family unit, suggesting a deep-seated concern over her influence.
Conversely, the late Queen Elizabeth II reportedly maintained a more optimistic outlook, holding “high hopes” for Meghan’s role within the firm.
Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have relocated to California, where they’re raising their two children.
While Harry plans to return to the UK next month to honor a decade of the Invictus Games, Meghan is expected to remain stateside.
This decision seems propelled by a mixture of safety concerns and a desire to sidestep any potential drama during a UK visit.
In the wake of their royal withdrawal, Meghan’s visits back to the UK have been infrequent.
Her public appearances have been largely restricted to significant events, such as attending Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022.
Notably, she did not make the trip for King Charles III’s coronation, allowing Harry to attend solo on that occasion.
As conversations continue to swirl around the royal family and their dynamics, these revelations about Prince Philip‘s thoughts offer a glimpse into the complexities of royal relationships.
The comparisons drawn between Meghan and Wallis Simpson only underscore the deep-rooted traditions and expectations that often accompany royal life.
In today’s landscape, the royal family is still grappling with the ramifications of Meghan and Harry’s decisions, as well as the public’s reaction to their exit from the traditional royal responsibilities.
While some see Meghan’s influence as a progressive force, others, like Prince Philip, found it more troublesome.
This ongoing narrative reflects a fascinating juxtaposition; the hope for renewal against the backdrop of historical precedents.
It poses the question: Can the royal family balance its storied past with the modern changes brought by new members?
Only time will tell how this story unfolds, but it certainly keeps the discussion lively around the world.
In the end, the complexities of familial ties, public opinion, and the influence of past figures like Prince Philip will continue to shape the narrative of the Sussexes as they navigate their roles.
The legacy of the recent past and the emergence of modernity will play pivotal roles in the ongoing saga of the British royal family.
