When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot in May 2018, the world was captivated by their fairy-tale romance.

Vanity Fair’s coverage at the time echoed this enthusiasm, painting Meghan as a trailblazing “American Princess” who breathed fresh air into the British monarchy.

The magazine’s May 2018 issue, which featured the couple on its cover, celebrated her Hollywood charm, humanitarian spirit, and strong sense of self.

However, the glowing admiration has since faded.

In a surprising shift, Vanity Fair’s February 2025 issue has turned the spotlight on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in a far less flattering light, with the headline “American Hustle” signaling a critical reassessment.

From Cheerleaders to Critics

In the early days of their relationship, the U.S. media – Vanity Fair included – was one of the couple’s loudest supporters.

Articles often focused on Meghan breaking barriers and Harry escaping a rigid royal system.

But public sentiment, especially in the U.S., has taken a sharp turn.

The magazine’s latest article, penned by Anna Peele, offers an unflinching 8,000-word exposé based on interviews with dozens of people who have worked closely with the couple.

The piece highlights issues ranging from their troubled reputation among Montecito neighbors to insider allegations of Meghan’s challenging behavior toward staff.

According to the report, several employees who worked on their podcast projects reportedly needed therapy or left their roles due to what they described as a toxic work environment.

Others characterized Meghan as overly demanding, with one insider calling her behavior “really awful” and likening her management style to a “Mean Girls teenager.”

Behind the Sussex Brand

The article delves into the struggles the couple has faced in building their brand.

Despite a $20 million deal with Spotify, their podcast output floundered.

Staff reportedly felt the couple lacked clear ideas, and at one point, a desperate team even floated the concept of Harry sampling hot chocolates with friends.

While some former employees spoke positively of their interactions with the Sussexes, others described a stressful environment fueled by lofty ambitions and mounting pressure to deliver results.

Perhaps the most damaging claim is that Meghan’s team allegedly discussed a potential “post-divorce” book deal in case her marriage to Harry ended.

While Vanity Fair noted these discussions never progressed and that the couple remains together, the allegation raises eyebrows about the strength of their partnership.

Struggles for Media Relevance

In recent years, the Sussexes’ relationship with the media has been fraught.

Their highly publicized 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey initially garnered sympathy, but critics now view their repeated grievances as tiresome.

Even once-supportive outlets like The New York Times and The Hollywood Reporter have grown weary, branding their projects as “whiny” and out

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