Meghan Markle's Envy of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions

Meghan Markle reportedly expressed surprise and dismay at Prince William's extravagant living conditions compared to Prince Harry's more modest accommodations upon meeting them for the first time in 2017. This disparity reportedly contributed to tensions between the couples.

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is reported to have had strong feelings about the contrasting lifestyles of Prince William and Prince Harry, her now-husband, when she first encountered the royal brothers. According to author Robert Jobson's book, "Catherine, the Princess of Wales," Markle believed that Harry "deserved more materially."

When Markle and Harry visited William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at their apartment at Nottingham Cottage, Markle was allegedly "taken aback" by the stark difference in their living arrangements. William and Catherine resided in the spacious 20-room Apartment 1A, while Harry occupied Nottingham Cottage, a comparatively modest dwelling with two bedrooms and one bathroom.

Meghan Markle's Envy of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions

Jobson posits that Markle's reaction to the disparity between the two brothers may have sparked the initial friction between the couples. He notes that Markle "was really surprised how lavishly Harry's brother was living compared to where they were living."

Markle's perception of inequality extended beyond the physical dwellings. In his book, Jobson writes, "I am not saying Meghan was jealous, but she was really surprised how lavishly Harry's brother was living compared to where they were living."

Meghan Markle's Envy of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions

At the time of Markle's introduction to William and Middleton, Harry was living in Nottingham Cottage, one of the smallest properties on the estate. The home's limited accommodations reportedly embarrassed Harry when he brought Markle there.

In his memoir, "Spare," Harry acknowledged the inadequacy of his previous living situation, stating that he was "embarrassed" to introduce Markle to Nottingham Cottage. He described the home as "no palace."

Meghan Markle's Envy of Prince William's Lavish Lifestyle: A Catalyst for Royal Tensions

After their marriage, Harry and Markle moved to Frogmore Cottage, a larger and more luxurious residence. However, in 2020, they stepped away from their royal duties and relocated to California.

Markle's initial surprise at the difference in living standards between Harry and William is believed to have contributed to the tensions that ultimately led to the Sussexes' departure from the royal family. The disparity in their lifestyles reportedly fostered a sense of resentment and a widening rift between the brothers.

The dynamics between the royal couples have been the subject of much speculation and media attention. The perceived favoritism towards William and Middleton, compared to Harry and Markle, is believed to have played a significant role in the separation of the brothers and the Sussexes' withdrawal from the royal fold.

While Markle has not publicly commented on her initial feelings towards William's lifestyle, her reported reaction offers insights into the complex dynamics within the royal family and the challenges faced by its members as they navigate personal ambitions and public expectations.