It’s not easy being in the global spotlight, especially when every move, word, and facial expression is captured and analyzed by millions. Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, knows this reality better than most. From her Hollywood career to her royal life and beyond, Meghan has had plenty of polished, graceful appearances—but not everything has gone smoothly. Sometimes, the camera catches something unexpected, awkward, or downright embarrassing. And when that happens, it tends to live forever on the internet.
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Here’s a deep dive into Meghan Markle’s most talked-about cringe moments—those seconds where things just didn’t land quite right, and the reactions were impossible to ignore.
One of the most unforgettable moments happened during Meghan and Harry’s royal tour in South Africa. Meghan took the stage to give what was supposed to be a heartfelt, moving speech to a group of young women. But instead of focusing on the issues at hand, Meghan opened with, “I’m here... as a woman of color and as your sister.” While her intentions may have been sincere, many felt the delivery was overly dramatic and self-focused, sparking an online frenzy. Critics called it performative. Supporters called it emotional. But the awkwardness was undeniable.
Another moment that made royal watchers wince came during Meghan’s first Trooping the Colour balcony appearance. Cameras caught her seemingly turning around to ask Prince Harry a question—only for him to apparently snap at her to turn back and face forward. The split-second exchange, caught by dozens of lenses, left fans wondering: was it tension? A royal protocol blunder? Or just bad timing? Either way, the clip went viral, and Meghan found herself at the center of more speculation than celebration.
Then there was the infamous red carpet moment in New York. Meghan and Harry appeared at a charity gala, and as photographers shouted directions, Meghan paused awkwardly, unsure of which way to turn. As Harry stepped ahead, Meghan seemed momentarily lost—caught between trying to smile for the cameras and regain her footing. The hesitation, followed by a forced laugh and a half-hearted wave, turned what should have been a glamorous moment into one fans described as “offbeat and stiff.”
But one of the most cringe-inducing moments came during their Netflix documentary. In a scene meant to show their relaxed, behind-the-scenes life, Meghan was seen dramatically reenacting how she curtsied for Queen Elizabeth II during their first meeting. With exaggerated movements and theatrical flair, Meghan laughed at the moment—comparing the royal gesture to something from Medieval Times. While the Sussexes may have thought it lighthearted, many viewers, especially in the UK, found it disrespectful and embarrassing. Even longtime fans admitted it felt out of place.
Social media has also been unforgiving when it comes to Meghan’s more awkward moments on talk shows. During her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Meghan took part in a hidden camera prank. Wearing a hidden earpiece, she followed Ellen’s silly instructions, including squatting in public, dancing like a cat, and drinking milk from a baby bottle. While the stunt was meant to show Meghan’s fun side, many viewers were stunned by the silliness. The backlash online was swift, with people questioning how a duchess could take part in something so juvenile. Even her supporters were left scratching their heads.
Meghan’s fashion choices haven’t been immune either. From wrinkled dresses at high-profile events to misunderstood cultural outfits during international tours, some outfits were seen as misfires. During her visit to Morocco, Meghan’s red caftan was meant to celebrate local culture—but the over-accessorized look had fashion critics calling it “overdone” and “costume-like.” When you're a royal, even clothing can create controversy.
Of course, Meghan is far from the only public figure to have awkward or cringe moments. Every celebrity, politician, and royal has had their share of slip-ups. But with Meghan, the stakes always seem higher. Her journey from actress to duchess to global advocate is filled with moments that blur the line between relatable and uncomfortable. For every person cheering her on, there’s another ready to analyze her every blink.
Despite these missteps, Meghan has remained unshaken in many ways. She continues to speak out, stand up for causes she believes in, and carve her own path. And maybe that’s what makes these moments even more human. In a world full of carefully curated perfection, even duchesses have cringe moments—and the world just can’t stop watching.