Fears Duchess Was ‘Smarter’ Than Prince Sparked Palace Block on Sandringham Call-In
Meghan Markle was reportedly barred from joining a key royal meeting in 2020 over concerns she might influence the outcome more effectively than Harry.
The Duchess of Sussex had requested to dial into the Sandringham Summit from Canada, where she was staying with baby Archie, but her request was rejected. According to Channel 5’s documentary Megxit: Inside the Sandringham Summit, palace aides feared Meghan's clarity of vision and strategic mindset might sway the discussion on the couple’s royal exit.
Journalist Emily Andrews suggested in the programme that Meghan’s intelligence and assertiveness led royal courtiers to believe they’d reach a more favourable deal with only Harry present.
The summit, hosted by Queen Elizabeth at her Norfolk estate, included senior royals such as Charles, Prince William, and top palace advisers. Meghan later reflected on her exclusion in the couple’s Netflix series, questioning how her future could be discussed without her input.
Royal commentators remain divided. Some express sympathy for Meghan, while others, like Richard Kay, insist security and confidentiality justified the palace’s decision, citing the risk of undisclosed individuals overhearing the call.
