The Sussex Comeback: 7 Major Projects And Controversies Defining Meghan Markle's 2025

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, is once again dominating headlines globally, with a series of high-profile projects and personal dramas marking a significant "comeback" in late 2025 and early 2026. As of this current date, December 11, 2025, the focus is squarely on her burgeoning independent career, the highly anticipated launch of her new lifestyle brand, and a rare, sensitive communication with her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., amidst his recent hospitalization. The shift from full-time working royal to media mogul in Southern California continues to unfold with strategic moves and occasional controversy.

Her and Prince Harry’s production company, Archewell Productions, is moving full steam ahead, focusing on content that aligns with their values and personal interests. The coming year is set to be one of the busiest for the Duchess since her departure from the Royal Family, with multiple ventures spanning media, business, and philanthropy, cementing her status as a global entrepreneur and media personality.

Meghan Markle: A Comprehensive Biographical Profile

Rachel Meghan Markle was born on August 4, 1981, in Canoga Park, Los Angeles, California, USA. Her life has been a remarkable trajectory from a successful Hollywood actress to a humanitarian and, ultimately, a member of the British Royal Family.

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• Full Name: Rachel Meghan Markle
• Born: August 4, 1981 (Age 44 as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Canoga Park, Los Angeles, California, USA
• Parents: Thomas Markle Sr. (Father), Doria Ragland (Mother)
• Education: Northwestern University (Theater and International Relations)
• Previous Career: Screen Actress (Most notable role: Rachel Zane on the TV series Suits)
• First Marriage: Trevor Engelson (2011–2013)
• Current Spouse: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (Married May 19, 2018)
• Children: Prince Archie of Sussex, Princess Lilibet of Sussex
• Royal Title: Duchess of Sussex, Countess of Dumbarton, Baroness Kilkeel
• Current Residence: Montecito, Santa Barbara, California
• Key Entities: Archewell Foundation, Archewell Productions, Netflix, Spotify, UN Women

The 2025 Comeback: New Lifestyle Brand and Netflix Expansion

The year 2025 is being framed by royal watchers and media analysts as the year of Meghan’s major professional pivot, moving beyond the initial Archewell content deals to launch a project deeply rooted in her personal interests: a new lifestyle brand. This endeavor is seen as a natural evolution of her former popular blog, The Tig, which she shut down before her marriage to Prince Harry.

1. The Highly Anticipated Lifestyle Brand Launch

Reports indicate that the Duchess is preparing to launch a new, as-yet-unnamed lifestyle brand in early 2026, following a major promotion push in late 2025. This project is expected to encompass areas like cooking, gardening, home entertaining, and general wellness—themes that resonate with her life in Montecito. The brand aims to be a curated, aspirational platform, potentially including physical products and digital content. The move is a significant step in establishing her financial independence and entrepreneurial identity outside the confines of the monarchy.

2. The Netflix Cooking, Gardening, and Entertaining Series

Tied directly to her new brand is an upcoming Netflix series, currently in production, that will focus on the same lifestyle themes. This unscripted show is expected to feature Meghan in a more relaxed, personal setting, allowing audiences a glimpse into her life in Southern California and her passion for food and home. This project fulfills a key part of the couple's multi-million dollar deal with the streaming giant, Archewell's long-term partnership with Netflix, which aims to produce inspiring and impactful content.

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3. Financial Demands and Ethical Investment Ventures

Recent reports in early December 2025 have highlighted internal discussions regarding the couple's financial future. Sources suggest Meghan has been pushing for Prince Harry to secure more lucrative and stable financial opportunities, citing the need for long-term security for their children, Archie and Lilibet. This pressure comes as they continue to navigate the high costs of their security and lifestyle in the U.S. Furthermore, both have taken on roles as partners at an ethical investment company, demonstrating a commitment to aligning their financial endeavors with their philanthropic values.

Recent Personal and Public Statements (December 2025)

Despite their desire for privacy, the Sussexes remain highly engaged in global issues and personal family matters, particularly as the year draws to a close.

4. Contact with Thomas Markle Sr.

In a rare and highly publicized move in December 2025, Meghan Markle reportedly reached out to her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., who was recently hospitalized. A spokesperson for the Duchess confirmed she was in contact with her father’s team, indicating a possible softening of the long-running family rift during a difficult personal time. This development is a significant personal update, as the relationship between Meghan and her father has been strained for years, a central topic of media speculation and scrutiny.

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5. Joint Statement on Social Media Regulation

In a powerful joint statement issued in December 2025, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reacted to Australia’s new social media legislation. The couple, through the Archewell Foundation, has long advocated for a safer online environment, particularly for children. Their statement commended the Australian government’s efforts to address online harm and disinformation, reinforcing their continued commitment to digital citizenship and media reform—a cause that has been a pillar of their post-royal work.

6. The "Pearl" Animated Series Status

While the focus is on the new lifestyle series, the status of their previously announced animated project, "Pearl," remains a topic of discussion. The project, about a 12-year-old girl’s adventures inspired by influential women, was reportedly shelved by Netflix during cost-cutting measures. However, the couple has indicated they are still developing various projects, suggesting a possible revival or retooling of the concept under their Archewell banner.

7. The Enduring Focus on Humanitarian Missions

Even with new media ventures, Meghan's commitment to humanitarian causes remains a constant. Her previous work with organizations like UN Women and her travels to countries like Rwanda and India continue to inform the mission of the Archewell Foundation. The couple’s future work is expected to maintain a strong focus on gender equality, mental health, and community building, ensuring their projects have a tangible social impact alongside commercial success.