Kate & Meghan: Dueling Duchesses

Something’s rotten in England. The most famous royals in the country are sparring — and the queen is not pleased

- Jaime Harkin

Meghan Markle held back tears — but not much else. During her emotional interview for Harry & Meghan: An African Journey, the ITV documentary that followed the couple on their South African tour in September, the Duchess of Sussex revealed that she’s struggling to acclimate to life as a royal and a new mom.

“I’ve really tried to adopt this British sensibility of a stiff upper lip,” she said, “but I think what that does internally is probably really damaging.” She went on to say she’s not getting the support she needs. “Not many people have asked if I’m OK,” she noted sadly.

Fans were sympathetic, and plenty of royal watchers applauded Meghan’s raw honesty. But some members of the monarchy weren’t so thrilled with her bold decision to air her dirty laundry on television. And, according to an insider, for Meghan’s more conservative sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, it was the last straw. “Kate will never forgive Meghan for implying that the family hasn’t asked how she’s doing,” the source tells Us.

Meghan, 38, and Kate, 37, have long been at odds over perceived slights and personality differences, but the source says their tenuous relationship is now irrevocably damaged. Echoes another insider, “Kate is appalled that Meghan’s been so vocal and disrespectful. Any chance they had of a lasting friendship has been ruined.” While they’ll continue to play nice for the cameras, behind the scenes, the women “are cold and distant,” says a source. And the tension between them continues to drive a wedge between their husbands, Prince Harry, 35, and Prince William, 37, along with the rest of the royal family, with members forced to take sides. “The queen is up in arms,” says an insider. “It’s her worst nightmare, seeing her family torn apart like this.”