Drew Barrymore Faces Backlash for Addressing Meghan Markle as “Meghan Sussex” on Talk Show
Drew Barrymore recently faced criticism for referring to Meghan Markle as “Meghan Sussex” on her talk show, sparking frustration among viewers. The actress and host decided to use the royal’s new “family name” after Markle, 43, corrected Mindy Kaling on her Netflix series for calling her by her maiden name.
According to a TV insider, Barrymore seemed to be following instructions to address the Duchess as “Meghan Sussex” on her show. While she may have thought it was a privilege to have Markle as a guest, many viewers found the decision off-putting.
Social media was flooded with comments expressing disappointment in Barrymore’s choice to use the new moniker for the Duchess. Some viewers pointed out that Markle’s insistence on the “Sussex” name seemed like a display of narcissism, especially after stepping back from her royal duties.
Markle and Prince Harry, 40, were granted the title of Duke and Duchess of Sussex by Queen Elizabeth II on their wedding day in 2018. Despite no longer being working members of the royal family and being instructed to refrain from using their HRH titles, they have adopted “Sussex” as their family name.
The couple’s children, Archie and Lilibet, also bear the last name Sussex, following a tradition in the royal family where children take on their parents’ titles as surnames. Markle has expressed that the Sussex name holds sentimental value for their family and will be cherished by their children as they grow older.
In a recent episode of her show, Markle shared a glimpse into her family life with Kaling, discussing their favorite childhood fast food choices. Markle revealed her love for chains like Pollo Loco, Taco Bell, and Jack In The Box, reminiscing about her upbringing as a “latchkey kid” with TV tray dinners.
During the conversation, Kaling unknowingly referred to Markle by her former name, prompting the Duchess to assert her new identity as “Meghan Sussex.” She emphasized the significance of sharing the Sussex name with her children and how it symbolizes their bond as a family.
As Markle navigates her post-royal life and continues to shape her public persona, her choice to embrace the Sussex name has sparked mixed reactions. While some admire her commitment to her family identity, others view it as a controversial move in the context of her royal departure.
