Beyoncé thanks Meghan Markle for ‘courage and leadership’ after Oprah interview

Singer says she was ‘inspired’ by interview with Markle and her husband, Prince Harry

Ellie Harrison
Wednesday 10 March 2021 08:31 GMT
Meghan Markle says it’s ‘liberating’ to be able to speak for herself

Beyoncé is the latest celebrity to show her support for Meghan Markle, following her in-depth interview with Oprah Winfrey.

The TV event saw Markle and Prince Harry give their first sit-down interview since stepping back as senior members of the royal family.

During the interview, they spoke at length about their struggles with mental health, racism and their strained relationship with the palace.

In a series of stunning revelations, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex accused the palace of fostering an atmosphere of hostility that reached a point where Markle contemplated taking her own life.

“I was ashamed to say it at the time... I just didn’t want to be alive any more. And that was a very real and clear and frightening and constant thought,” she said.

Read more -Harry and Meghan: Jada Pinkett Smith and Gabrielle Union among celebrities to react after Oprah interview

Markle also claimed that a member of the royal family relayed concerns regarding “how dark” the skin of their son Archie would be when he is born.

Prince Harry spoke about how he felt really “let down” by Prince Charles as he longed for the public support of his family, particularly during a time when his wife faced scrutiny from the British tabloids.

In a lighthearted moment, the couple revealed that they are due to welcome a baby girl sometime later in the summer.

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Showing her support for Markle in a front page post on her website, Beyoncé shared a picture of their meeting at the 2019 European premiere of The Lion King.

“Thank you Meghan for your courage and leadership,” the singer wrote. “We are all strengthened and inspired by you.”

Markle speaks to Oprah
Markle speaks to Oprah (CBS)

Buckingham Palace issued a statement in response to the interview this week, saying: “The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.

“The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. Whilst some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.

“Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members.”

You can find helpful tips on how to start a conversation, or if you are worried about someone else, on Samaritans website.

You can contact the Samaritans helpline by calling 116 123. The helpline is free and open 24 hours a day every day of the year.

You can also contact Samaritans by emailing jo@samaritans.org. The average response time is 24 hours.

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