Meghan Markle, now known as the Duchess of Sussex, grew up in Los Angeles, California, where she attended school and made lifelong friendships. Although the identities of her childhood friends have not been publicly disclosed, Markle has spoken about the close relationships she formed during her youth.
Markle attended Immaculate Heart High School, an all-girls Catholic school in Los Angeles, where she was known for her passion for theater and social justice. She was a member of the school’s theater program and often performed in school plays.
Markle has said that her experience in theater helped her build confidence and develop her love of storytelling.
During her high school years, Markle also participated in community service projects and was a member of the school’s “I Am That Girl” empowerment group, which encouraged young women to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams.
After graduating from Immaculate Heart High School in 1999, Markle attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where she studied theater and international relations. While at Northwestern, Markle continued to pursue her passion for acting and participated in several student productions.
Markle has not publicly disclosed the names of her childhood friends, but she has spoken about the importance of maintaining close relationships throughout her life.
In a 2016 interview with Glamour, Markle said, “I’ve always valued my friendships, especially my female friendships. My girlfriends are my confidants, my support system, and my inspiration.”
Markle’s close friends have also been supportive of her throughout her life. When Markle married Prince Harry in May 2018, several of her friends, including tennis champion Serena Williams, actress Priyanka Chopra, and designer Misha Nonoo, were in attendance.
It has also been said that Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, the wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is a close friend of Meghan Markle. The two women reportedly met through mutual friends and bonded over their shared interest in philanthropy and women’s empowerment.
In 2016, Markle interviewed Trudeau for her former lifestyle website, The Tig, and the two women have since collaborated on various charitable initiatives. In 2019, Grégoire Trudeau attended a private baby shower for Meghan in New York City.
George and Amal Clooney are also close friends of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. The Clooneys attended the couple’s wedding in May 2018 and have publicly defended them against negative media coverage.
In February 2019, George Clooney criticized the media’s treatment of Meghan, saying that she was being “vilified” and compared her to Princess Diana. Amal Clooney has also reportedly given Meghan advice on how to navigate life in the public eye.
Tyler Perry, the Hollywood mogul behind the Madea film franchise, has also been a supportive friend of Meghan and Harry. According to reports, Perry offered the couple his private jet when they moved to the United States and provided them with a temporary home in his Beverly Hills mansion.
Perry has also been vocal about his admiration for Meghan, saying that he respects her decision to step back from royal duties and prioritize her family’s well-being.
