Ex-royal staffer defends Meghan Markle after Remembrance controversy

A former royal staff member has hit back at critics of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, insisting the couple “did nothing wrong” by attending two high-profile Hollywood events over Remembrance weekend.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, both 44 and 41, first attended the 2025 Baby2Baby Gala in West Hollywood before later joining Kris Jenner’s James Bond-themed 70th birthday celebration at Jeff Bezos’s Beverly Hills estate on Saturday night.

Their glamorous double appearance drew criticism from some who claimed the timing was “disrespectful.” However, Jack Stooks, a former royal gardener turned commentator, told GB News that the outrage was misplaced.

“I don’t feel that they need to be locked away or hidden out of sight,” he said, adding that Prince Harry, who served two tours in Afghanistan, “knows exactly what Remembrance stands for.”

He continued: “Meghan was doing nothing wrong. Harry was doing nothing wrong. He’s actually served in a war, unlike any other senior royal currently. He’s seen what conflict does to people.”

Stooks concluded that the Duke’s military service speaks louder than any appearance: “Harry wouldn’t go out thinking he doesn’t care. He does care—very much.”

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