Meghan Markle Faces Backlash Over Perceived Diana Tribute and Paris Fashion Week Controversy
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A recent photoshoot featuring Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, and a social media post from Paris Fashion Week have ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many accusing her of insensitivity and an unsettling obsession with the late Princess Diana. The controversy underscores the enduring public fascination with Diana and the delicate balance Meghan navigates as she forges her own identity within the royal family’s long shadow.
Harper’s Bazaar Photoshoot Draws Ire
Meghan’s appearance in the December 2025/January 2026 issue of Harper’s Bazaar, which debuted online on November 19, has sparked outrage among social media users who perceive it as a deliberate attempt to emulate Princess Diana. The Duchess posed in several shots that echoed iconic images of the late Princess, leading to accusations of “cosplaying” and “obsessive” behavior.
In one striking parallel, Meghan is depicted sitting barefoot and cross-legged in a white shirt and black trousers, mirroring a photograph of Diana from the 1990s. Another image shows Meghan wearing a red gown reminiscent of one favored by her mother-in-law.
The reaction online was swift and largely negative. “This is FOUL!” one user commented on Harper’s Bazaar’s post. Another went further, stating, “But parroting Diana clothing items + outfits + studio poses, borders on psychotic, obsessive, abnormal behavior. This ain’t healthy, y’all. Not at all.” A third user simply remarked, “Talk about cosplaying Diana again.” Some expressed discomfort with the idea of Prince Harry being “styled like his dead mom.”
However, not all responses were critical. Some defended Meghan, with one X user stating, “Not even close… stop being delusional,” and another adding, “You must’ve pulled a muscle with all that reaching!”
Paris Fashion Week Incident Fuels Controversy
The backlash extends beyond the photoshoot. Meghan recently faced criticism for a social media post made during Paris Fashion Week in early October. She shared a video of herself riding in a limousine with her feet up, as the car passed near the Pont de l’Alma tunnel – the site of the 1997 car crash that claimed Princess Diana’s life.
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The post ignited a new wave of outrage. “Instead of avoiding those places that the late Princess Diana went to, she went and recreated them, how evil,” one user wrote. Another questioned, “Why would she film the place where Prince Harry’s mother died? Moreover, why would she post it on social media for the world to see? Why?” A third user expressed disbelief, asking, “This is beyond disturbing. She had nothing whatsoever to do with Princess Diana, so why is she doing it?”
Royal Experts Weigh In
The controversy has prompted commentary from royal experts. Richard Fitzwilliams, speaking to DailyMail.com, expressed shock at Meghan’s actions. “I don’t understand what on earth she was thinking. Well, she can’t have been thinking. No adviser would ever advise doing something so strange,” he stated. He continued, “I’m sure she didn’t mean to cause offense. She can’t have been thinking, but it’s insensitive beyond belief.” Fitzwilliams added that Princess Diana’s death remains a deeply painful event for Prince Harry, and he doubted the Duke would find the post “very appropriate.”
These incidents raise questions about the ongoing legacy of Princess Diana and the challenges faced by those who attempt to honor her memory. While Meghan’s intentions remain unclear, the public’s reaction demonstrates the enduring power of Diana’s image and the sensitivity surrounding any perceived appropriation of her legacy. The situation highlights the tightrope walk Meghan faces as she navigates her public persona and the expectations that come with her position, particularly in relation to the beloved Princess of Wales.
