Why Meghan’s Documented Career Exposes Kate’s Lack Of Work History

The British media loves to draw endless comparisons between Princess Kate (née Middleton) and Meghan Sussex (née Markle). A perfect example is Kate’s appearance at the HMS Glasgow naming ceremony. In just eight seconds, she read a short phrase from a note: “I have the pleasure of naming this ship, HMS Glasgow. May God bless her and all who sail on her.” Yet, media outlets called it a “speech” and fawned over her presence as if she’d delivered a rousing address. Left-leaning publications highlighted heritage and social impact, while right-leaning coverage turned it into a show of national power. The center stayed neutral, focusing on the ship’s operational details.

NEW: The Princess of Wales, known as the Duchess of Rothesay in Scotland, has officially named HMS Glasgow by launching a bottle of whisky against the hull pic.twitter.com/euif954SpR

— Kate Mansey (@KateMansey) May 22, 2025

This glaring inadequacy in Kate’s eight-second “speech” at HMS Glasgow foreshadows her future role as Queen. After all, she spent 14 years married to Prince William and more than a decade as his on-and-off girlfriend, yet her pre-marriage career was as unimpressive as those 20 words she read from a note. Meghan Sussex, on the other hand, built a thriving career and made a lasting impact before she ever met Prince Harry. Their achievements before marriage reveal a difference that the monarchy and media try to erase but cannot hide.

Meghan Sussex’s Record of Success

Meghan Sussex’s achievements before marriage put her in a league of her own. She graduated from Northwestern University with a double major in theatre and international relations. Her studies didn’t just stop at a degree—she worked as an intern at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This experience gave her insight into global diplomacy and exposed her to international work.

She designed two collections for the Canadian retailer Reitmans, showing her keen eye for fashion and marketing. As an actress, Meghan starred in seven seasons of the legal drama Suits, proving her staying power in a tough industry. Meghan appeared in 23 television shows and 8 films. She built a strong resume that went far beyond celebrity status.

Outside the world of entertainment, Meghan used her platform for good. She was a UN Women’s advocate and delivered a speech at the 2015 UN Women’s Conference.

Meghan founded The Tig, a lifestyle blog that covered self-empowerment, fashion, and travel. Her humanitarian work took her to India, where she partnered with the Myna Mahila Foundation to advance gender equality. She even joined the United States Armed Forces for the USO Tour, supporting troops during the holidays. Her achievements reflect a life driven by passion, curiosity, and a deep commitment to social change.

Kate’s Limited Pre-Marriage Contributions

Kate’s life before marrying Prince William was more conventional. She graduated with a degree in art history from the University of St Andrews, a move that also placed her in direct contact with the future king. Kate worked briefly in the family business, Party Pieces, a party supplies company that later went into administration in 2023. She also took a part-time job as an accessory buyer for a junior clothing store called Jigsaw Junior. These jobs, while giving her some work experience, didn’t come close to Meghan’s record of leadership, creativity, or activism.

The British media presents Kate as the embodiment of traditional values, reinforcing a story of silent support and domestic calm. However, Kate’s contributions before marriage didn’t show the same level of ambition or public engagement and service. There was no history of advocacy or building a career on her own terms. Instead, her main role was to stay in William’s orbit and wait until he was ready to commit.
Beyond their personal stories, the media’s framing of these women reveals deeper truths.

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Media Bias Between Meghan and Kate

The British media often draws comparisons between royal women, yet the narratives surrounding their pre-marriage careers reveal stark differences. Princess Diana, despite her aristocratic background, held various jobs before her engagement to Prince Charles. She worked as a nanny, earning $5 an hour, and later as a nursery assistant at the Young England Kindergarten in Pimlico, London, showing an early commitment to real work. Photographs from that period capture her actively engaged in childcare, underscoring her commitment to work even before joining the royal family.

Meghan’s early career, though sometimes mocked by the press, showcases her determination and versatility. She appeared as a “briefcase girl” on the game show Deal or No Deal in 2006, participating in 34 episodes. Beyond that, Meghan worked as a freelance calligrapher, and taught bookbinding. Her involvement in humanitarian efforts, such as her work with World Vision in Rwanda and advocacy with organizations, further exemplifies her proactive engagement in meaningful causes.

In contrast, Kate’s professional background before marrying Prince William in 2011 is less documented. After graduation, her working career was scant. There is a noticeable absence of photographic evidence or detailed records of her involvement as an accessory buyer. Despite being in the public eye during her decade-long relationship with Prince William, media coverage of her professional endeavors, remains minimal.

Related | Royal Women Who Had Meaningful Careers Before Marriage

A Woman of Her Own Making

This disparity in documentation and media portrayal raises questions about the narratives constructed around royal women. While Meghan’s diverse career and activism were often scrutinized or downplayed, Kate’s limited professional background was seldom questioned, and her transition into royal duties was portrayed as seamless. There is no visible evidence of Kate’s pre-marriage work. This contrasts sharply with the extensive documentation of Meghan’s career and humanitarian efforts.

Such differences suggest an underlying bias in media narratives, where Meghan’s ambition and work ethic were viewed through a lens of skepticism, while Kate’s traditional path was embraced without scrutiny. This bias not only affects public perception but also reflects broader societal attitudes towards women’s roles and accomplishments. This bias not only shapes public perception—it also cements the idea that royal women should be silent and ornamental.