Meghan Markle Sparks Controversy Over Surname in Netflix Series
In a recent episode of her Netflix series With Love, Meghan, Meghan Markle found herself at the center of controversy after correcting her friend, actress Mindy Kaling, about her surname. During the exchange, Markle reminded Kaling that she should refer to her as "Sussex" rather than "Markle." The moment, which was meant to highlight her new identity as a member of the British Royal Family, instead sparked widespread mockery and criticism online.
A Light-hearted Exchange Turns Heated
The conversation began when Kaling humorously noted that few people would know that Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, enjoys eating fast food from Jack in the Box. Markle playfully responded, "It’s so funny that you keep saying ‘Meghan Markle,’ you know I’m ‘Sussex’ now." She went on to explain that adopting the name "Sussex" held deep meaning for her, especially as a mother to her children, Archie and Lilibet. "You have kids, and you go, ‘No, I share my name with my children,’" she said. "It just means so much to go, ‘This is our family name, our little family name.’" Kaling, seemingly understanding, replied, "Well, now I know."
Backlash and Accusations of Hypocrisy
The lighthearted moment quickly turned contentious as viewers took to social media to call out Markle for what they perceived as hypocrisy. Many referenced a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which Markle expressed frustration over losing her personal identity and name after marrying into the Royal Family. "There’s a lot that’s been lost already — I nearly lost my name," she said at the time. Critics argued that her insistence on being called "Sussex" now contradicted her earlier complaints about losing her name. One user mocked, "Meghan, 2021: ‘I nearly lost my name.’ Meghan, 2025: ‘It’s so funny that you keep saying Meghan Markle. You know I’m Sussex now.’"
The Royal Surname Debate
The controversy also sparked a debate over the technicality of royal surnames. Many pointed out that "Sussex" is not a surname but a royal title tied to the British monarchy. The Royal Family’s official surname is Mountbatten-Windsor, as stated on official documents, including the birth certificates of Archie and Lilibet. Critics accused Markle of misunderstanding the distinction between a royal title and a personal surname. "Sussex isn’t even a surname, it’s a title," one user wrote. "If she took her husband’s surname, it would be Meghan Windsor, and so are her kids." Others mocked her for what they saw as a lack of awareness, with one quipping, "She’s not Meghan Sussex, she’s Duchess Salmonella," referencing a scene from the series where raw chicken was spotted in her refrigerator.
Netflix Series Faces Backlash Amid Controversy
The backlash against Markle coincided with the release of her Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, which premiered to scathing reviews. Viewers criticized the show for being tone-deaf and overly indulgent, with many expressing frustration over Markle’s perceived self-importance. The series, which focuses on food, family, and lifestyle, was intended to showcase her personality and values but instead became a target for mockery. A Hollywood insider told NewsNation that Netflix is "done" with Markle’s projects, citing significant financial losses and a lack of interest in continuing their partnership. "They’ve lost so much money on her, and they’re trying to finish a deal which they can’t get out of," the insider said. "How could they not be done with her?"
Royal Titles, Identity, and Public Perception
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between Markle’s personal identity and her royal ties. While she no longer holds the "Her Royal Highness" title, her association with the Royal Family remains a defining aspect of her public image. The debate over her surname reflects broader criticisms of her perceived inconsistency and what some view as a disconnect from reality. For many, her insistence on being called "Sussex" feels like an attempt to cling to a title that no longer fully applies to her, while others see it as a genuine expression of her family pride. Regardless, the incident underscores the challenges Markle faces in navigating her post-royal life and redefining her public persona.
