While Meghan Markle has faced ups and downs in her circle of friends, one person continues to sing her praises.
Kelly McKee Zajfen, a longtime confidant of the Duchess of Sussex, recently shared warm words about their two-decade-long bond during an Instagram Q&A.
Her heartfelt comments come at a time when Meghan is dealing with the sting of high-profile supporters walking away.
Kelly’s Heartfelt Words About Meghan
Kelly, a former model and philanthropist based in California, met Meghan years ago through her ex-husband, film producer Trevor Engelson.
When asked online about her favorite accounts to follow, she included Meghan’s personal page, describing her as “endlessly inspiring.”
In another reply, Kelly opened up about how Meghan has been a steady, nurturing presence in her life, even attending her wedding years ago.
A Friendship Deepened by Tragedy
The friendship took on an even deeper meaning in 2022, when Kelly lost her nine-year-old son George to a sudden viral illness.
Meghan, alongside Prince Harry, stood by her during that devastating time, attending memorial events and supporting her charitable work in George’s name.
From fundraising tournaments to awareness campaigns, the couple has shown up consistently.
Meghan’s Critics and Former Fans
Kelly’s glowing support arrives just as Meghan faces criticism and fading loyalty from others.
Stassi Schroeder, a reality TV star once known as Meghan’s “number one fan,” recently declared she was cutting ties.
Her reason? She didn’t receive a PR package from Meghan’s lifestyle brand.
Stassi, who once defended Meghan’s Netflix show against poor reviews, vented on her podcast that being excluded was the “last straw” and announced she would unfollow the Duchess.
Shifting Alliances in Meghan’s Social Circle
This isn’t the first time Meghan’s friendships have made headlines.
Jessica Mulroney, once among her closest allies, reportedly fell out with the Duchess following a public controversy in 2020.
Rumors now swirl that Jessica might pen a tell-all book about their friendship.
Other names, such as Millie Mackintosh, Priyanka Chopra, and Violet von Westenholz, have also reportedly drifted away.
Against this backdrop, Kelly’s loyalty stands out even more.
Kelly’s Work and Meghan’s Support
Beyond their personal bond, Meghan has supported Kelly’s nonprofit work.
Kelly founded the Alliance of Moms, a group dedicated to helping young mothers in LA’s foster care system.
Meghan has joined her in promoting the cause, even wearing charity merchandise to raise awareness.
Kelly has often spoken about how Meghan steps up without hesitation, lending her influence for good.
Acts of Kindness from Meghan and Harry
The Sussexes have also shown generosity toward Kelly’s family in tangible ways.
Following George’s passing, they donated $5,000 in their children Archie and Lilibet’s names to a fundraiser supporting the Zajfens.
The families have shared lighter moments too, from attending events to relaxing together away from the spotlight.
A Glimpse Into Meghan’s Home Life
Over the weekend, Meghan gave her followers a peek inside the Montecito home she shares with Harry and their children.
Posting a story on Instagram, she revealed a cozy scene featuring her beagle, Mia, napping on a cream armchair, accompanied by a floral arrangement in a stone vase branded with her lifestyle label, As Ever.
Though fans speculated about a homeware line, PEOPLE confirmed the vase was a one-off prop for her Netflix show.
Meghan’s Brand and Its Future
So far, As Ever has released food and drink products like jams, teas, and wines.
But Meghan has hinted before that she might expand into other areas such as home goods and fashion.
Whether or not that’s next on her list, her brand continues to stir strong reactions — both positive and negative.
What Comes Next for Meghan?
With loyal friends like Kelly by her side and critics like Stassi stepping away, Meghan finds herself once again at the center of divided opinions.
Between running her brand, managing public perception, and nurturing long-standing friendships, the Duchess continues to balance the complexities of her life in California.
What’s certain is that the conversation around her isn’t slowing down anytime soon.