A federal judge in Florida dismissed a lawsuit against Meghan Markle, rejecting claims by her half-sister, Samantha, that Markle made “disparaging, hurtful, and false” remarks about her.
Samantha alleged that Markle’s statements in a Netflix documentary series and an interview with Oprah Winfrey implied she was a “deceptive fame-seeking imposter.”
The lawsuit specifically targeted Markle’s comments about their childhood relationship and Samantha’s surname change when Markle started dating Prince Harry.
U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell found that the statements in question were either opinions, substantially true, or did not constitute defamation.
Markle and Prince Harry, known as The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have resided in California since stepping down from royal duties in 2020. Their split from the British royal family has garnered international attention and criticism.
During the Oprah interview, Markle and Harry accused the royal family of racism and neglect, further fueling the ongoing public debate. Markle’s response regarding Samantha’s alleged tell-all book underscored the strained relationship between the siblings.
Despite the lawsuit, the couple’s popularity took a hit, especially within Britain, and led to significant challenges for the monarchy.
The judge’s decision to dismiss the lawsuit reflects the complex dynamics surrounding Markle’s public image and the ongoing scrutiny of her actions and statements. While the legal battle may have ended, the broader narrative of the couple’s rift with the royal family continues to captivate global audiences.
