Before becoming the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle grew up in Los Angeles navigating questions about identity and belonging. Born to Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr., she often described her childhood as that of a “latchkey kid,” learning independence early while her parents worked demanding jobs.
As a teenager she focused heavily on academics and advocacy, even writing letters at age 11 that helped change a sexist television advertisement. After studying theater and international relations at Northwestern University, she returned to Los Angeles to pursue acting.
Her breakthrough came with the TV drama Suits, where she gained international recognition. In 2018 she married Prince Harry at St George’s Chapel, later stepping back from royal duties in 2020. Now living in Montecito, Meghan focuses on family, media projects, and philanthropy through the Archewell Foundation, continuing to shape her public role on a global stage.