Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were introduced to one another in July 2016, and the former Suits actress has opened up about the reason she fell in love with the DukeDaniel Bird Assistant Celebrity and Entertainment Editor and Katy Hallam
08:59, 21 Nov 2025
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry share a kiss(Image: Netflix)
Meghan Markle was more interested in Prince Harry’s playful side than his Royal status. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who were first introduced by mutual friends on a blind date in July 2016, hit it off immediately.
They had their second date just a day later, having quickly formed a strong bond. Despite the allure of dating a prince, Meghan, 44, wasn’t swayed by Harry’s life at Kensington Palace or the fact that his grandmother is the Queen.
“He loves me so boldly, fully, and he also has a different perspective because he sees media that I wouldn’t,” said the former Suits star.
The mother-of-two continued: “No one in the world loves me more than him, so I know he’s always going to make sure that he has my back.
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“You have someone who just has this childlike wonder and playfulness. I was so drawn to that, and he brought that out in me.
“That’s translated into every part of our life. Even in business, I want us to play and have fun and explore and be creative.”
In her chat with Harper’s Bazaar, the Duchess also reflected on the lessons she’s learned from her mistakes while living under the public gaze.
“You learn not to do it again,” she stated, adding: “If it all goes swimmingly, you don’t learn from it. If you don’t learn anything, you’re not going to grow.”, reports the Mirror.
“I’m a mom with kids at that age where they are constantly learning something new. I watch them face things that feel completely insurmountable every day.
“But you can remember and say, ‘I know it seems really hard right now, but trust me, that’s going to come so easily soon.’ I can give myself the same grace as a founder. There’s no such thing as perfect. I, too, get to make mistakes.”
However, since relinquishing their Royal duties in 2020, the couple’s life in Montecito has become considerably more enjoyable for the Sussexes and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who was named in honour of her great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth.
Using a baking analogy, Meghan suggested that excessive stress prevents people from enjoying life’s pleasures, much like overworked dough fails to rise properly.
“There’s also not a lot of fun in trying to be perfect,” she added. The festive season promises to be particularly joyful for the Sussex family.
Meghan, who secured a substantial contract with streaming platform Netflix, recently offered viewers a preview of her upcoming Christmas series for the service.
The couple displayed their affection with a tender kiss in their kitchen whilst filming. During her new programme, the former Suits star discussed “embracing traditions” and “connecting with the people we love,” before sharing an intimate moment with her husband.
The programme, scheduled to air on December 3, will feature Meghan alongside a selection of celebrity guests as they assist her in preparing and presenting festive food and decorations, whilst also offering their entertaining advice for the Christmas season.
And whilst her Royal relatives will be making their way to Sandringham for a chilly winter, Meghan disclosed she “loves” the Christmas series. She said: “I love the holiday season, it’s about finding time to connect with the people we love.
“Embracing traditions and making new ones. Let the festivities commence and embrace the special touches that bring you joy.”
Once more, she and Harry will be abandoning the Royal custom of exchanging presents on Christmas Eve, and will instead be enjoying delicious cocktails and festive dishes – including Christmas cookies.