At this point, we all know that Meghan Markle had an acting career before she married Prince Harry. She starred in the USA Network legal drama Suits for seven seasons, and before that role, she graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Communication with a degree in theater and international studies.

Now, Queen Elizabeth has reportedly appointed Markle as the patron of the National Theatre. According to The Express, last month, Markle met with Rufus Norris, the director of the National Theatre, to discuss her plans for the role. The Duchess’ new position will include getting involved with The American Associates of the National Theatre in New York, which is a non-profit organization that contributes nearly $4 million to the National Theatre each year.

Markle will also serve as a liaison between the National Theatre and American benefactors in an effort to strengthen their relationship.

Norris became the theater director in 2015, and he says that in the past they have avoided admitting there is a connection between the theater and the Royal family because of the fear of being considered “elitist.”

“The country is still very class divided and anything that adds to that perception, that this place is not open to everybody, could be a downfall,” says Norris.

An official announcement of Markle’s new role as patron of the National Theatre is expected to happen soon.

In the meantime, Markle’s feud with Kate Middleton continues to make headlines, and her dad, Thomas Markle, says that the two women should put their differences aside. However, he has found the criticism of his daughter to be very upsetting, and she doesn’t deserve it because she isn’t doing the things she is being accused of.

Meghan Markle's wardrobe cost £400k in 2018 – six times more than Kate's

— Mirror Royal (@MirrorRoyal) January 4, 2019

Thomas hasn’t had any contact with Meghan since she married Harry, so he hasn’t been able to give her any advice. But he says he doesn’t buy the story that Meghan made Kate cry because the Duchess of Cambridge is stronger than that, plus she is in a more powerful position than Meghan.

“I don’t think she’s afraid of anyone. And I don’t believe that Meghan is trying to hurt her in any shape or form. But at the moment I cannot call Meghan and say, ‘What is going on?’ How can I help you?’ I need to know what the hell is happening and why it is happening. I need to know why she is being bashed every day,” says Thomas.

Advertisement

The former Hollywood lighting director also revealed that he is hurt that Meghan Markle hasn’t reached out to him for support.