In a new festive Netflix special, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has offered a rare and surprisingly fond glimpse into her past life as a working royal, specifically recalling the Christmas traditions she experienced in the United Kingdom.
A Nostalgic Nod to Royal Christmases
The programme, which premiered on the streaming service this week, features Meghan hosting celebrity guests for festive cooking and crafts. During a segment on making personalised Christmas crackers from scratch, the Duchess was prompted by restaurateur Will Guidara, who was unfamiliar with the tradition.
Meghan reflected on her time living in Britain, stating, "Living in the UK, it's a big part of the culture for sure." She described the typical scene of people sitting around the table, crossing arms, and pulling the crackers simultaneously. She also recalled the small jokes and sweets contained inside, marking a clear memory from her brief tenure within the Royal Family.
The Duchess spent two Christmases at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk with the royal family, in 2017 and 2018, before she and Prince Harry stepped back from their official duties in 2020.
Harry's Supportive Cameo and Family Traditions
Prince Harry made his longest appearance to date in one of Meghan's Netflix projects, showing unwavering support for his wife's post-royal career. His cameo featured playful banter, particularly about Meghan's cooking.
As Meghan prepared dishes with Top Chef judge Tom, Harry revealed a family tradition of making a special salad with beetroot, black olives, and fennel on Christmas Eve. Meghan laughed, noting she loves those flavours but rarely eats them because Harry dislikes them. The segment ended warmly, with Harry greeting his wife with a kiss in the kitchen.
Later, after tasting a gumbo that Meghan explained was her mother Doria's Christmas Eve tradition, Harry teased, "It is delicious, I'm not so sure it's as good as your mum's, but it's certainly close." The moment showcased their light-hearted dynamic and Harry's clear pride in Meghan's endeavours.
Analysis: A Glimpse of Fond Memories
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond noted that Meghan's remarks indicate she holds some positive memories from her royal life, despite the well-documented challenges. "It's nice to hear her reminisce quite fondly about at least part of her time in the UK," Bond told the Mirror.
She added that while the comment about Christmas crackers wasn't a deliberate message, it confirms there were enjoyable moments. Regarding Harry's appearance, Bond interpreted it as a natural show of solidarity, stating, "I think it's an indication that he's fully supportive of Meghan's new career and proud of what she's achieved."
The Netflix special, therefore, serves a dual purpose: it marks the latest step in the couple's independent media career while offering a nuanced, personal reflection on a chapter of their lives that continues to captivate public interest.
