Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, reportedly envisioned herself as a modern continuation of Princess Diana’s legacy but on her own terms—part-time and with greater independence. This claim is one of many made in Tom Quinn’s new book, Yes, Ma’am: The Secret Life of Royal Servants, which explores the behind-the-scenes experiences of royal staff.

A former staff member revealed that Meghan once expressed a desire to “finish what Diana started” by becoming a global advocate for the marginalized. However, the Duchess’s expectations clashed with the traditional demands of royal life. The insider noted that Meghan wished to pursue humanitarian work while maintaining the title and prestige of a working royal, albeit without the full-time commitment the role required.

Clashes With Royal Expectations

Meghan’s reluctance to fully embrace the rigid structure of the royal institution became evident early on. According to the book, she disliked the necessity of informing staff about her movements, a protocol designed to ensure coordination within the family and avoid scheduling conflicts with more senior royals.

Her discontent extended to her living arrangements at Nottingham Cottage, where she and Prince Harry resided between 2017 and 2019. The book suggests she saw the modest accommodations as a symbol of how the royal establishment undervalued them. This sentiment reportedly reinforced her belief that the Firm was sidelining Harry, an idea she purportedly instilled in him as their frustrations grew.

Struggles With Royal Strategy

Another revelation in Quinn’s book suggests that Meghan did not conform to the overarching royal strategy. A former courtier claimed that Meghan wanted to operate independently rather than adhering to the royal family’s collective approach. This was reportedly unacceptable within the institution, where every royal’s actions are carefully coordinated to maintain hierarchy and protocol.

The book highlights that Meghan’s approach threatened to overshadow senior royals, particularly Princess Anne and then-Prince Charles. A former courtier explained that she did not fully grasp that, within the monarchy, individuals do not have the liberty to dictate their own agendas. Rather, they serve the institution, a concept Meghan reportedly found restrictive.

Harry’s Transformation and Defense of Meghan

The book also examines the impact of Meghan’s influence on Prince Harry. A former aide suggested that after marrying Meghan, Harry became more invested in social justice issues and developed an increased awareness of racial and societal inequalities. This shift in focus, while commendable in many respects, reportedly caused further friction between the couple and the royal family.

Harry’s growing disillusionment with palace life led him to prioritize Meghan’s concerns, often defending her against officials and courtiers. According to the book, this dynamic contributed to their eventual decision to step back from royal duties in 2020, as they sought greater autonomy in shaping their roles.

A Broader Perspective on Royal Life

The book also recounts how Meghan’s clashes with palace staff were partly rooted in what one insider described as a “messiah complex”—a strong belief that she was destined to enact major change. While her intentions may have been noble, her approach reportedly created tension with the traditional structures of the monarchy.

Additionally, Quinn’s account suggests that prior to Meghan’s arrival, Harry was perceived as relatively easygoing, albeit somewhat uncertain about his post-military future. The palace had hoped that his marriage would provide him with stability and purpose, but instead, his growing frustration with the Firm led to a deepening rift between him and the royal institution.

Conclusion

Quinn’s book presents a compelling but controversial perspective on Meghan Markle’s time as a royal. It portrays her as someone who sought to redefine the role on her own terms, but ultimately clashed with an institution steeped in centuries-old traditions. Her desire to operate independently while maintaining royal status proved incompatible with the Firm’s expectations, leading to tensions that ultimately culminated in the couple’s departure from royal life.

While these accounts reflect the views of former palace staff, Meghan and Harry have yet to comment on the claims. Their journey, from royal life to forging their own path in the U.S., continues to be a subject of public fascination and debate.