Meghan Markle Reveals Decade-Long Battle with Online Bullying
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has made a startling declaration about her experiences with online harassment, stating she has endured daily bullying and attacks for an entire decade. The 44-year-old former American actress made these emotional comments during a royal tour of Australia, where she participated in a roundtable discussion focused on youth mental health.
'Most Trolled Person in the Entire World'
"Every day for 10 years, I've been bullied and attacked," Meghan told young people gathered in Melbourne during the third day of the visit. "But I'm still here." She went on to describe herself as "the most trolled person in the entire world" while discussing the damaging effects of social media platforms.
The Duchess offered a critical perspective on the social media industry, urging attendees to recognize that these platforms represent "a billion dollar industry that is completely anchored and predicated on cruelty to get clicks." She emphasized that this fundamental dynamic "isn't going to change," advising young people to develop resilience and strength in the face of such negativity.
Prince Harry Shares Personal Struggles
Meanwhile, at a separate event during their Australian tour, Prince Harry opened up about his own emotional challenges. The 41-year-old royal revealed he had experienced feelings of being "lost, betrayed, or completely powerless" throughout his life, particularly following the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana, when he was just 12 years old.
During a leadership summit discussion, King Charles III's youngest son explained how his mother's passing initially made him want to abandon his royal responsibilities. "It killed my mum and I was very much against it, and I stuck my head in the sand for years and years," Harry confessed. He described a turning point where he reconsidered his position, asking himself what his mother would have wanted him to do with his platform and resources.
Australian Tour Activities and Controversy
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's four-day Australian visit has included multiple engagements beyond the mental health discussions:
- Meghan filmed a segment for MasterChef Australia scheduled to air on Sunday
- She will participate in a "girls' weekend like no other" at Sydney's InterContinental Coogee Beach hotel featuring yoga, sound healing, dinners, and disco dancing
- Tickets for this event cost approximately $1,900 (Aus$2,699) per person, with VIP packages offering photo opportunities with Meghan and special gift bags
- The couple plans to visit Canberra, Australia's capital city
While the royal pair has received warm welcomes at their stops, the visit has not been without criticism. Victoria state opposition leader Jess Wilson has questioned the use of taxpayer money to provide security protection for Harry and Meghan during their tour.
The couple, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and later relocated to North America amid family tensions, are currently raising their two young children in California. Prince Harry has indicated he is working to repair his relationship with his father, who remains Australia's head of state.
