A California Superior Court judge has delivered a major setback to Meghan Markle‘s financial ambitions amid her contentious divorce from Prince Harry.
The court’s recent decision to dismiss her unprecedented claim to Harry’s substantial $80 million trust fund has turned heads, marking a pivotal moment in what many are calling the divorce of the decade.
The drama unfolded during a lengthy 12-hour hearing, where Markle’s legal team made a determined push for access to the trust fund, which has roots in the British royal family’s storied past.
Critics have been quick to label this move as an audacious attempt to benefit from her brief stint as a working royal, echoing sentiments that emerged when she first joined the royal family.
A former palace aide, speaking anonymously, remarked, “This was never about love,” highlighting a perceived pattern of calculated maneuvering aimed at securing a place within one of the world’s most prestigious families.
During the court proceedings, Harry’s legal representatives effectively argued that the trust fund, which includes inheritances from both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, is protected under British law and existed long before their marriage.
Legal experts had anticipated this outcome, questioning the boldness of attempting to lay claim to funds clearly marked as personal inheritance.
Tensions escalated as evidence emerged suggesting Meghan had a long-term strategy focused on achieving financial independence through her royal connections.
Emails and text messages introduced in court hinted at premeditated moves, some even preceding the couple’s explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021.
Royal biographer Catherine Mayer noted, “What we’re seeing here is the unraveling of a carefully constructed narrative,” suggesting that the image of a naive actress who fell for a prince is being replaced by something much more strategic.
The judge’s ruling has been particularly gratifying for those who have remained loyal to the crown throughout the Sussexes’ tumultuous departure from royal duties.
Lady Colin Campbell, a well-known royal commentator, stated that this judgment confirms suspicions that Meghan’s ultimate goal was financial gain rather than public service.
Court documents revealing Meghan’s extravagant lifestyle during the marriage further complicated her case.
They detailed lavish spending on designer clothes, private jet travel, and luxury renovations, all while she publicly aspired to lead a more ordinary life away from royal privilege.
This juxtaposition raised eyebrows and fueled skepticism about her intentions.
For Prince Harry, the court’s decision represents a significant victory.
Reports suggest he was deeply hurt by Meghan’s attempts to access funds tied to his mother, Princess Diana.
Financial analysts estimate that the trust fund, valued at around $80 million, comprises key portions of Harry’s inheritance from Diana’s estate, as well as assets from the queen’s personal wealth.
Royal financial expert David McClure emphasized that these funds symbolize Harry’s heritage and his mother’s legacy, making any claim to them during divorce proceedings particularly egregious.
In the wake of the ruling, support for Prince Harry has surged, even from some Hollywood figures who previously aligned with Meghan.
This shift in public sentiment has been palpable, with social media buzzing in favor of the prince.
Legal commentators suggest this ruling establishes a crucial precedent for high-profile divorces involving protected trusts, clarifying that pre-existing family assets cannot be easily accessed through marriage.
As the divorce proceedings continue, attention now shifts to the division of assets acquired during the marriage, including their Montecito mansion and various media contracts.
However, the court’s rejection of the trust fund claim has significantly weakened Meghan’s negotiating position moving forward.
Looking ahead, royal watchers speculate that Harry may find a smoother path back to a traditional role within the royal family, especially as he has recently been spotted spending more time in the UK.
This development suggests a potential reconnection with his royal roots, contrasting sharply with the fairytale romance that once captivated audiences.
The unfolding saga paints a complex picture of two individuals navigating the intersection of modern celebrity culture and ancient royal traditions.
The California court’s ruling not only secures Prince Harry’s trust fund but also serves as a symbolic reminder of the enduring power of royal heritage against fleeting celebrity status.
As the dust settles, both parties face uncertain futures—Harry, gradually finding his way back to his roots, and Meghan, whose Hollywood narrative may not have unfolded as she envisioned.
Related Stories
