Meghan Markle's Too Common Touch: Duchess Was 'Quite Unusual' Compared to Other Senior Royals

Ever since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's engagement announcement in late 2017, the former actress has frequently upended what it means to be a British royal. This led photographer Samir Hussein, who famously photographed Harry and a blue midi dress-clad Meghan at the 2020 Endeavor Awards, to label the ex-actress as "quite unusual," when compared to the likes of Kate, Princess of Wales or Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

"It was very noticeable when Meghan came on the scene just how tactile she was, like holding the Duke’s hand and being arm-in-arm, so that was quite unusual," the royal photographer dished. "[When I] spoke to some of their team, they were really happy about it and talking about it."

The lensman continued: "I've never had a reaction to a picture like that one. In terms of the reaction I’ve had from people, that’s got to be the most iconic from that point of view."

Although "Megxit" marked a huge shift to drama for Harry and Meghan, by 2024, things could finally be turning around for the pair after four years. It was recently announced that the Suits star will attempt another podcast with Lemonada Media. The duo are also believed to be making content for their "thus far lackluster" Netflix contract as well.

Hussein went on to photograph many more historic royal events after the drama surrounding Megxit in early 2020. His most recent was the crowning of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. It marked the first British coronation in 70 years but wasn't without its hiccups. "The coronation was such a historical and amazing event to document despite standing out in the rain for eight hours," he revealed.

The photographer added how 2022 was a year to remember for the British monarchy. "It was such a memorable year for the royals and a year [unlike] any other in my career with the Jubilee and death of the queen."

The Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry have been "hot and heavy" on the PR circuit during the first quarter of 2024, with multiple glossy appearances at film premieres and more. Although both ex-working royals and their spokespeople are adamant that it is sincere and "all for good causes, Schofield is highly skeptical.

"Team Sussex is trying to distract from the decline in their professional reputation and general likability," royal expert Kinsey Schofield dished. "Harry and Meghan are trying to slap some glitter on a lackluster brand. The Sussexes have developed a reputation for being difficult, unrealistic, and unproductive. A one-trick pony spilling the tea on Harry’s royal relatives."

The New York Post reported on Hussein's comments.