Just as Meghan Markle faces public scrutiny and shifting loyalties among her fanbase, one steadfast friend has stepped up to share a heartfelt tribute.
Kelly McKee Zajfen, Meghan’s best friend of over 20 years, praised the Duchess for her nurturing and loving nature during a recent Instagram Q&A from her California home.
A Friendship Built Over Two Decades
Kelly, a former model who first met Meghan through her ex-husband Trevor Engelson, highlighted the depth of their bond.
Asked about her favorite accounts to follow, Kelly placed Meghan’s personal Instagram handle, @meghan, third on her list, saying she was “endlessly inspired” by her longtime friend.
Recalling their shared history, Kelly wrote, “I’ve actually known her for almost 20 years.
She even came to my wedding 15 years ago and has been the most amazing, nurturing, fun, loving human.
She’s been by my side especially since Georgie died and I cherish our friendship very much.”
Standing Together Through Tragedy
Meghan has long supported Kelly, who tragically lost her nine-year-old son, George, in 2022 to a sudden viral illness.
Since then, Meghan and Prince Harry have attended several charity events in George’s memory, including a tennis tournament last year coinciding with Harry’s 40th birthday.
Kelly’s public praise comes at a crucial moment, following a recent betrayal from a prominent supporter.
Reality TV star and podcaster Stassi Schroeder, previously Meghan’s “number one fan,” unfollowed her on Instagram and publicly criticized her after being left out of a PR package from Meghan’s lifestyle brand, As Ever.
When Loyal Fans Turn Away
Stassi, who once defended Meghan’s Netflix show With Love, Meghan, explained on her podcast that being ignored by the brand was the last straw.
“I think that she is stuck in 2017 and just thinks I’m a lowly reality TV person, and I am furious,” she said.
“I’m not watching her show anymore, I’m not going to talk about her anymore. I’m going to unfollow her right now.”
Meanwhile, Jessica Mulroney, another former close confidant, also fell out of favor after controversies surrounding Meghan and the broader Black Lives Matter movement in 2020.
Other reported former friends include Millie Macintosh, Priyanka Chopra, and Violet von Westenholz.
Kelly’s Enduring Support
Unlike these former allies, Kelly has remained a consistent supporter. She even appeared in the first season of Meghan’s Netflix show.
Kelly founded Alliance of Moms 13 years ago, a membership group supporting pregnant and parenting youth in LA’s foster system.
Meghan has actively backed the organization, appearing at events and helping promote initiatives.
Kelly told People Magazine that Meghan’s involvement was both generous and immediate.
“It’s just amazing always having people around who want to use their voices and give back to the community and always show up and always say yes,” Kelly said.
A Personal Touch at Home
Over the weekend, Meghan shared a rare glimpse inside the $14 million Montecito mansion she shares with Prince Harry and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
In her Instagram Stories, she showcased a cosy living room, complete with an elegant floral arrangement and their beagle, Mia, relaxing on a cream armchair and matching footstool.
The flowers were placed in a vase branded with the logo from Meghan’s lifestyle company, As Ever.
While the Duchess has not yet launched a homeware line, her past products have included jams, wines, and teas, with hints at possible expansion into home goods and fashion in the future.
A Friendship That Endures
Through heartbreak, public scrutiny, and shifting loyalties, Meghan’s friendship with Kelly remains a constant.
The Duchess continues to be surrounded by those who know her personally, highlighting the importance of enduring relationships amid a whirlwind of fame and criticism.