Rachel Meghan Markle, known widely as Meghan Markle, is an American member of the British royal family, media personality, entrepreneur, and actress. Born on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, she gained international fame through her marriage to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, the younger son of King Charles III. Before her royal status, Meghan established herself in the entertainment industry, most notably for her role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama series Suits, which aired from 2011 to 2018.

Meghan was raised in a diverse family; her father, Thomas W. Markle, was a television lighting director, while her mother, Doria Ragland, is a social worker and yoga instructor. She attended Northwestern University, where she studied theater and international relations, paving the way for her acting career. Meghan's early roles included appearances in various television shows, but it was her portrayal of Rachel Zane in Suits that marked a significant turning point in her career, earning her recognition and a dedicated fan base over seven seasons.

Beyond acting, Meghan developed a strong social media presence, launching her lifestyle blog, The Tig, in 2014. The blog focused on food, travel, and fashion, while also highlighting issues related to women's empowerment and social justice. During this period, she became increasingly involved in charitable work, advocating for various causes, including gender equality and education.

In 2011, Meghan married film producer Trevor Engelson, but the couple divorced in 2014. Her life took a dramatic turn when she began dating Prince Harry, whom she wed on May 19, 2018, at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle. Following their marriage, Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex and embraced her new royal duties alongside her husband. The couple welcomed their first child, Archie, in May 2019, followed by their daughter, Lilibet, in June 2021.

In January 2020, Meghan and Harry made headlines when they announced their decision to step back as senior members of the royal family, seeking financial independence and a more private life. They relocated to Meghan's native Southern California, where they established Archewell Inc., a multifaceted organization that encompasses both for-profit and non-profit initiatives.

Meghan's post-royal life has continued to be impactful. In March 2021, she and Harry participated in a highly publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey, which shed light on their experiences within the royal family. She also authored the children's book, The Bench, and launched her podcast, Archetypes, in 2022, where she explores the stereotypes women face. The couple's Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, released in late 2022, further detailed their journey and challenges.

As of 2025, Meghan has expanded her entrepreneurial ventures with the launch of her lifestyle and cooking brand, As Ever. Her commitment to social justice and advocacy continues to shape her public persona, making her a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and charitable realms.