Prince Philip’s Cruel Nickname For Meghan Markle

A new book by royal biographer Ingrid Seward, My Mother And I, reveals Prince Philip’s reported nickname for Meghan Markle, calling her the “Duchess of Windsor.” The name draws a deliberate comparison to Wallis Simpson, the American divorcee whose relationship with Edward VIII led to his abdication. Like Simpson, Markle is an American divorcee who married into the royal family, and Prince Philip reportedly saw striking similarities between the two, describing them both as slim, glamorous, and controversial figures in royal history.

Seward’s book also shares insights into Queen Elizabeth II’s view of Markle. The Queen reportedly approved of her when she was introduced by Prince Harry in 2017, though she had reservations about Markle’s wedding dress, allegedly finding it “too white” given her previous marriage. The couple’s decision to step down from royal duties in 2020 and move to California has been likened to Edward VIII’s departure from royal life. Royal commentator Hugo Vickers even drew parallels between Prince Harry and Edward VIII, suggesting both men appeared unhappy after leaving behind their royal responsibilities.