Almost exactly eight years after their lavish wedding on May 19, 2018, at St. George's Chapel in Windsor, the friendship landscape of Prince Harry (41) and Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex (44), looks dramatically different. The guest list for their wedding read like a who's who of global royalty and A-list celebrities. Among those who celebrated with them were Oprah Winfrey (72), George (65) and Amal Clooney (48), David (51) and Victoria Beckham (52), tennis legend Serena Williams (44), and actor Idris Elba (53). However, according to insiders, many of these former superpower connections have now noticeably cooled or faded away entirely. "They don't understand it. They never think it's their fault," a friend of the couple told a British news outlet.
The Oprah Winfrey Divide
One of the most striking examples is the growing distance between the Sussexes and Oprah Winfrey. The talk show legend, who notably declined to become the godmother of their daughter Lilibet (4), had granted the couple a landmark interview in 2021. Since then, their relationship has become quieter. A journalist familiar with the situation described the dynamic: "Oprah has been keeping the Sussexes at arm's length for a while. She can't completely take her eyes off them because if something big happens, she wants the interview — but she's not really friends with them." This distancing suggests that Winfrey, despite her initial support, now prefers to maintain a professional rather than personal connection.
The Clooney Conundrum
Similarly, the relationship with George and Amal Clooney has soured. The couple had hosted Harry and Meghan at their Lake Como villa soon after the wedding and even lent Meghan their private jet for travel. But insiders report that the Clooneys have shifted allegiance. "George and Amal Clooney were never really close to Meghan. They have aligned themselves with the real royalty," a source said. This became evident when George and Amal frequently attended events supporting the King's Trust, an organization founded by King Charles III, which is also backed by Idris Elba. The Clooneys' public support for the royal family signals a clear choice of sides.
The Serena Williams Stance
Serena Williams, who once introduced Meghan to her agent and was considered a close friend, has also stepped back. While there is no public conflict, she is reportedly growing weary of the constant drama surrounding the Sussexes. "She is not a drama person and is tired of all of it," an insider explained. Williams, known for her focus and discipline on the tennis court, appears to prefer a quieter life away from the media firestorm that often accompanies Harry and Meghan.
Former 'Suits' Colleagues Fade
The actor friends from Meghan's acting days on the legal drama "Suits" also attended the wedding in large numbers. However, only Abigail Spencer (44) appears to maintain a close friendship with Meghan now. Patrick J. Adams (44), who played Meghan's love interest on the show, publicly confirmed in 2024 that he has little contact with the couple anymore. This suggests that even professional bonds forged before royal life have not survived the intense scrutiny and lifestyle changes.
Loyalty from Elton John and Markus Anderson
On the other hand, legendary musician Elton John (79) remains steadfastly at Harry's side. However, insiders emphasize that this friendship is primarily with Harry personally. John, who was a close friend of Harry's mother, Princess Diana, continues to show unwavering support. Another key figure who has remained loyal is Markus Anderson, a manager at Soho House. Anderson is credited as one of the matchmakers who helped bring the couple together, and he frequently vacations with them. "It's a genuine connection, and he says they are wonderful people whom he cherishes very much," a source reported. Yet, a more cynical observer noted: "The people who have stayed most loyal are those who benefit from the relationship. With everyone else, they end up falling out."
Background and Context
Since stepping down from senior royal duties in 2020 and moving to California, Harry and Meghan have continued to court both media attention and controversy. Their interviews, documentaries, and memoirs have often included criticisms of the royal family, creating a divide not only with the Palace but also with former friends. The shift in personal relationships mirrors their changing social standing. While they once attracted global stars eager to associate with royal glamour, the ongoing tensions and public feuds have made them a risky association for A-listers who value their own reputations. The couple's repeated airing of grievances has alienated even those who initially supported their narrative of escaping royal oppression.
Moreover, the demands that come with being friends with Harry and Meghan are reportedly high. Sources claim that the couple expects unwavering loyalty and public advocacy, which can conflict with other friendships and professional commitments. This was evident when Victoria Beckham, once a close friend, reportedly distanced herself after Meghan's tell-all interview with Oprah. The Beckhams have since been seen socializing with other royals, further emphasizing the shift.
As for other notable figures, Idris Elba, who attended the wedding, has remained primarily focused on his work with the King's Trust and has not been publicly associated with the Sussexes recently. Meanwhile, the Clooneys' allegiance to the King's Trust suggests a preference for traditional royal circles over the Sussexes. The landscape of friendships around Harry and Meghan has thus become a reflection of their broader public perception: once objects of fascination, now subjects of caution and distance.
The situation is perhaps best summarized by the observation that the few who remain close — like Markus Anderson — leverage their proximity for professional gain, while genuine friendships have largely evaporated. For the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the widening gap between them and their former celebrity friends is yet another chapter in their complicated relationship with fame, family, and public opinion. As they continue to navigate their post-royal life, the question of who will stand by them remains uncertain.
Source: Promiflash.de News