British Press Revives 2018 Bullying Complaint Against Meghan Markle

The British press has reignited controversy around the Duchess of Sussex after The Times revealed details of

a previously undisclosed bullying complaint dating back to 2018 — allegations Meghan Markle has firmly denied.

According to the report published on March 2, the complaint was submitted in October 2018 by Jason Knauf, former communications secretary to Prince Harry and Meghan. Knauf alleged that Meghan had repeatedly bullied palace staff, driving some to tears and leaving others emotionally distressed.

The complaint claims that Meghan forced two personal assistants out of the palace and severely undermined the confidence of a third. At times, staff members were said to be “shaking with fear” at the thought of being confronted by her. One passage alleges that senior figures at both Buckingham Palace and Clarence House were aware that employees — particularly young female staff — were being reduced to tears.

“There was report after report of unacceptable behaviour,” the complaint states, describing a pattern of conduct that Knauf believed warranted intervention to protect palace employees.

Knauf is said to have formally raised the matter with the Royal Household’s human resources department, urging Buckingham Palace to step in. However, sources claim no formal investigation was launched. One insider alleged that Prince Harry personally asked Knauf to stop pursuing the complaint.

Meghan’s representatives swiftly rejected the allegations. A spokesperson for the Duchess said she was “deeply saddened” by what they described as the latest personal attack against her.

“The Duchess is heartbroken by this smear campaign,” the statement read. “Meghan remains committed to spreading compassion around the world and will continue striving to set an example of kindness.”

Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the report.

The timing of the allegations has raised eyebrows, coming just days before Prince Harry and Meghan’s highly anticipated, two-hour interview with Oprah Winfrey was broadcast in the United States on March 7, with a UK airing following on March 8. The interview, described as “intimate” and “wide-ranging,” focuses largely on Meghan’s experiences, with Harry appearing only briefly.

Royal sources say the Palace had “braced itself” for potential revelations from the interview, which covers the couple’s life inside the monarchy and their eventual decision to step back from royal duties.

Harry and Meghan officially severed their working ties with the Royal Family after the end of a one-year review period. As a result, their honorary military titles and royal patronages were withdrawn and reassigned to other senior royals.

In a separate statement last week, Prince Harry said relentless pressure from the British media had played a major role in damaging his mental health and ultimately pushed him to leave royal life.

As the allegations resurface and tensions remain high, the renewed scrutiny underscores how deeply divided public opinion remains over the Sussexes — and how unresolved palace conflicts continue to haunt the monarchy.