"Why There? Meghan Markle Faces Backlash for 'Chilling' Limousine Video on Social Media"

Video Filmed Near Site of Diana's Death Posted on Social Media
Criticism Mounts Over "Insensitive Act Disregarding Prince Harry's Pain"

Meghan Markle, 44, wife of Prince Harry of the United Kingdom, faced intense criticism after posting a video on social media showing her stretching out her legs and relaxing inside a limousine during her visit to Paris. The backlash grew stronger when it was revealed that the video was filmed near the site of the late Princess Diana's fatal accident, with many accusing Meghan of "disrespectful behavior" for not considering Prince Harry's feelings.

Recently, international media outlets such as the Daily Mail reported that Meghan, who was in France to attend Paris Fashion Week, released a video on her Instagram story while traveling by car. The footage included scenes of Paris landmarks such as the Pont Alexandre III and the Pont des Invalides, as well as a shot of Meghan relaxing with her legs stretched out inside the limousine.

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, wife of Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, the second son of King Charles III of the United Kingdom. Netflix

However, after it was confirmed that the video was filmed near the Alma Tunnel in Paris, the site where Princess Diana died in a car accident in 1997, a wave of criticism erupted online, with comments such as "chilling" and "incomprehensible behavior."

British netizens expressed anger, asking, "Why did she have to film and release footage from the place where Prince Harry's mother passed away?" and accusing her of staging a scene reminiscent of Diana's tragedy. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams commented, "It is completely baffling and lacks sensitivity," adding, "It is inappropriate to film a video at a place that remains a deep wound for Prince Harry."

Princess Meghan Markle with her husband Prince Harry (right). Photo by Yonhap News

During her lifetime, Diana was known as the "People's Princess" and was beloved by the public. However, in August 1997, while passing through the Alma Tunnel in Paris, she died when her car crashed into a pillar inside the tunnel while trying to evade paparazzi. The driver at the time was intoxicated and speeding at over 100 km/h.

Meanwhile, Meghan has previously drawn attention for wearing Diana's keepsakes at official events. At the 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award ceremony in New York, she wore Diana's favorite aquamarine ring. This ring, which Prince Harry gifted her at their wedding, was frequently worn by Diana as a substitute for her engagement ring after her divorce from Prince Charles in 1996. At the time, American media outlet ET reported, "Meghan commemorated the meaningful moment of receiving the human rights award with Diana's jewelry."