Meghan Markle is reportedly “running on empty” amid growing tensions at home, as Prince Harry’s desire to spend more time in the United Kingdom leaves her feeling increasingly isolated in California.
Meghan Feeling “Adrift” in Montecito
The Duchess of Sussex, 44, has been living in Montecito with Prince Harry, 41, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. But nearly five years later, sources claim Meghan is feeling “adrift” as her husband grows nostalgic for his life in Britain.
According to insiders, Harry’s private visit to the UK in September reignited his emotional ties to his homeland. During the trip, he attended charity events such as the WellChild Awards and met with King Charles III, who is continuing his cancer treatment.
“Harry’s nostalgic for parts of his old life – the military community, his family, even the rhythm of London – and Meghan senses that distance,” a source shared with RadarOnline.
Harry Planning More Time in the UK
The insider claimed that Harry is quietly making plans to “spend more time in the UK” and “reconnect with his roots,” a decision that has reportedly left Meghan feeling “increasingly isolated.”
Friends say Meghan is relying heavily on her California support circle while managing motherhood and her business goals.
“It’s as if she’s living two separate lives – one as a hands-on single mother, the other as a Duchess trying to sustain an empire that isn’t quite working,” the source added.
Meghan’s Business Ventures Under Pressure
In April, Meghan launched her lifestyle brand As Ever through a partnership with Netflix, following a rebrand from American Riviera Orchard. The launch ties in with her cooking show, With Love, Meghan, which has released two seasons as part of the couple’s original Netflix contract.
That deal was once rumored to be worth USD $100 million, but has reportedly been downgraded to a “first-look” arrangement. This gives Netflix the option—but not the obligation—to produce new content from the couple.
Speaking at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Summit in Washington, DC, Meghan framed the new agreement as a “positive move” that showcases their “flexibility.” She also likened their strategy to Barack and Michelle Obama’s work with their production company, Higher Ground.
When asked about future seasons of her cooking show, Meghan avoided a direct answer but hinted at a holiday-themed special in development, calling it “really good.”
As Ever Brand Facing Challenges
Despite Meghan’s claims that her As Ever products—such as jams and wines—are “selling out,” industry observers have suggested the shortages reflect limited supply rather than overwhelming demand.
Angela Mollard, a News Corp columnist, told Sky News Australia: “I don’t think she’s selling that much… There’s just no interest in it.”
Nonetheless, As Ever’s social media pages frequently repost glowing customer feedback and promotional photos.
A separate source maintained that Meghan still has “enormous ambitions” for the brand to evolve into a global success but acknowledged the pressure is mounting. “She’s determined to keep going, but she’s running on empty… Right now, Meghan feels adrift,” they said.
