Suits co-star Wendell Pierce clarifies Meghan and Harry criticism, says British monarchy is ‘archaic’ and ‘racist’

Actor said Markle ‘would always have a friend in me’

Former Suits star Wendell Pierce has clarified his comments regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Speaking about the interview, Pierce – who played Robert Zane (the father of Meghan Markle’s character) on the legal drama – said that: “It was quite insensitive and offensive that we are all complicit in the sort of palace gossip in the midst of so much death.”

The actor said that the interview itself, which aired in the UK on ITV on Monday (8 March), evoked Shakespeare’s phrase “full of sound and fury signifying nothing”.

Pierce took to Twitter yesterday (10 March) to clarify his comments after discovering “my words are being used as an attack”.

“I just discovered my words are being used as an attack. Well done British Press,” he wrote.

The 57-year-old went on to clarify his views on the monarchy, writing: “Clarity: The British monarchy is archaic in my American eyes. If slavery and colonialism and apartheid didn’t educate you that they are racist, you failed history.”

The Independent has contacted a representative of the royal family for comment.

He went on to say that he was “fortunate to tell Meghan personally I wish her all the best”, and added that although “I had no interest in the interview” Markle “would always have a friend in me”.

Referencing Markle’s revelation that she had experienced suicidal thoughts due to the abuse she suffered when joining the royal family, Pierce wrote: “In no way am I insensitive to suicide. Unfortunately my family has suffered the pain of losing someone to suicide.

READ MORE: Meghan Markle reportedly made complaint to ITV following Piers Morgan comments about her mental health

“I never was interviewed by the Daily Mail and their story manipulated my words in a radio interview.” 

He concluded: “As I told Meghan, I support her and wish her all the best.”

During the two-hour TV special, Markle spoke about her time in the royal family, opened up about the suicidal thoughts she experienced, and said conversations were had about how dark her child’s skin would be when she was pregnant.

A palace statement released on behalf of the Queen on Tuesday (9 March) said the “whole family is saddened” by how “challenging” the previous years have been for the royal couple.

It added that the allegations of racism are “concerning” and will be “addressed by the family privately”.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Helpline is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.