Meghan Markle’s new podcast launched recently and was the subject of discussion

Meghan Markle’s Working Mother Claims Spark Debate

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has once again found herself at the center of media scrutiny following comments about balancing her roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and public figure. A recent article published by The Sun on April 16, 2025, labeled her claim of “juggling it all” as a working mother “laughable,” sparking a polarized debate about her public persona, the expectations placed on working mothers, and the media’s portrayal of her endeavors. This article explores the context of Meghan’s statements, the criticisms leveled against her, and the broader implications for public discourse on motherhood and ambition.

The Context of Meghan’s Claims

Meghan’s comments about managing her responsibilities as a mother to Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet while pursuing her career came amid the promotion of her lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her Netflix cooking and entertaining show. These projects mark a return to her pre-royal career roots, reminiscent of her lifestyle blog, The Tig, which she shuttered upon joining the British royal family. In public appearances, Meghan has emphasized the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with parenting, a narrative that resonates with many working mothers globally.

However, The Sun’s article, amplified by a post on X on April 16, 2025, dismissed her portrayal as a relatable working mother, arguing that her privileged lifestyle—complete with staff, wealth, and flexibility—sets her apart from the average parent struggling to make ends meet. The piece suggested that her claims trivialize the real hardships faced by working mothers, framing her as out of touch with ordinary realities.

Media Criticism and Bias

The Sun’s critique is part of a broader pattern of intense media scrutiny directed at Meghan, often tinged with personal and gendered undertones. For instance, a 2023 column by Jeremy Clarkson in the same outlet was ruled sexist by the UK press regulator, IPSO, after it garnered over 25,000 complaints for its derogatory language toward Meghan. The column’s fallout, including Clarkson’s apology following condemnation from his daughter, underscores the contentious nature of media coverage about the Duchess. Such incidents raise questions about whether criticisms like those in the April 2025 article are rooted in objective analysis or fueled by a narrative that casts Meghan as a perpetual villain.

Other outlets, such as The Telegraph, have similarly questioned Meghan’s motives, with a February 2025 piece suggesting she continues to “blame the royals for her woes” through her brand’s backstory. Yet, sources like Celebitchy argue that Meghan rarely references her royal past explicitly, and the media’s fixation on her supposed grievances distorts her actual focus on lifestyle and philanthropy. This discrepancy highlights a selective framing that amplifies controversy over substance.

The Working Mother Narrative

Meghan’s attempt to connect with audiences as a working mother taps into a universal theme but invites skepticism due to her unique circumstances. Unlike most parents, she operates within a sphere of privilege that affords nannies, flexible schedules, and financial security. Critics argue this disconnect undermines her relatability, particularly when her public statements lack acknowledgment of these advantages. However, supporters contend that all working mothers, regardless of status, face challenges in balancing career and family, and Meghan’s openness about her struggles contributes to a broader conversation about these pressures.

The backlash also reflects societal expectations of motherhood. Women in the public eye, especially those like Meghan who challenge traditional roles, often face disproportionate scrutiny. Her decision to step back from royal duties, relocate to the United States, and build a media and business empire has been polarizing, with some praising her independence and others viewing it as a rejection of duty. The Sun’s framing of her “juggling” as “laughable” risks reinforcing a narrative that diminishes women’s multifaceted roles unless they conform to a specific archetype of struggle.

The two royal experts were critical of Meghan’s new brand portrayal

A Balanced Perspective

While Meghan’s wealth and status undeniably ease some burdens of motherhood, dismissing her experiences outright ignores the complexities of her position. Public life under constant scrutiny, coupled with the demands of parenting and entrepreneurship, presents its own challenges, even if they differ from those of the average working mother. The Sun’s article, by focusing on mockery rather than nuance, misses an opportunity to engage with the broader issue of how society perceives and supports working parents.

Moreover, the media’s role in shaping public perception cannot be understated. Sensational headlines and selective narratives, as seen in The Sun’s coverage, often prioritize clicks over constructive dialogue. A more balanced approach would acknowledge both Meghan’s privilege and her efforts to carve out a meaningful career while raising young children, fostering a discussion about the diverse realities of working motherhood.

Conclusion

Meghan Markle’s comments about “juggling it all” have reignited debates about privilege, relatability, and media bias. While criticisms of her claims are not without merit, the tone and framing of outlets like The Sun often veer into personal attacks rather than substantive critique. As Meghan continues to build her brand and navigate public life, the discourse surrounding her reflects broader tensions about gender, ambition, and the expectations placed on mothers. Moving forward, a more nuanced conversation—one that recognizes both her unique circumstances and shared human experiences—could bridge the divide between her critics and supporters, fostering a more empathetic understanding of working motherhood in all its forms.

Sources: The Sun, The Telegraph, Celebitchy, The Guardian, BBC News