Meghan Markle, also known as the Duchess of Sussex

 

Meghan Markle, also known as the Duchess of Sussex, was born on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, to Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle. Her father was a lighting director and her mother was a social worker and yoga instructor. Meghan's parents divorced when she was two years old, and she was raised by her mother in Hollywood.

Meghan attended Hollywood Schoolhouse and later graduated from Immaculate Heart High School in 1999. She then attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where she studied theater and international studies. During her time at university, she interned at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and later worked as a freelance calligrapher.

After graduating in 2003, Meghan moved to Los Angeles and began pursuing an acting career. She landed small roles in TV shows and films, including "General Hospital," "CSI: NY," and "Horrible Bosses." In 2011, she landed the role of Rachel Zane on the USA Network TV series "Suits," which she played for seven seasons until 2017.

In 2016, Meghan met Prince Harry, the younger son of Charles, Prince of Wales, and the late Diana, Princess of Wales, on a blind date. They began dating and their relationship became public in 2016. In November 2017, Prince Harry proposed to Meghan, and they announced their engagement. They married on May 19, 2018, at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

After their marriage, Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex and a member of the British royal family. She and Prince Harry have two children, Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, born on May 6, 2019, and Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor, born on June 4, 2021.

In 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry announced that they would be stepping back from their roles as senior members of the royal family and pursuing a more private life. They currently reside in California and have founded the non-profit organization Archewell, which focuses on issues such as education, conservation, and women's empowerment.

Throughout her life, Meghan has been known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for women's rights and social justice. She has been a vocal supporter of organizations such as UN Women and the Malala Fund, and has spoken out on issues such as gender equality and racial justice.

In recent years, Meghan has faced intense media scrutiny and criticism, particularly from the British tabloids, which has led to concerns about her mental health and well-being. Despite this, she remains a popular figure and a symbol of hope and inspiration for many people around the world.