Meghan Markle opened up about the personal impact Gloria Steinem had on her life after the feminist icon’s death. The Duchess of Sussex remembered Steinem as both a trusted mentor and someone who offered wisdom when life became difficult.
Markle shared an emotional tribute that highlighted their private friendship beyond Steinem’s public legacy. She also recalled the activist’s relationship with Prince Harry and their children, making the loss especially personal.
Meghan Markle revealed Gloria Steinem counseled her during difficult moments
Markle paid tribute to Steinem through Instagram, calling her a “friend and mentor.” She said she felt grateful knowing Steinem understood how deeply people loved and admired her. The Suits alum also remembered conversations about making the world more equitable. Their discussions focused on ways to navigate a world Markle described as beautiful but complicated.
“Privately, she was even better than you would imagine,” Markle wrote. Their friendship also extended into Markle’s family life. She recalled Steinem spending Thanksgiving with her and Prince Harry while becoming close with their children.
Markle credited Steinem with introducing her to one of her closest friends. She described the activist as “forever the champion of female friendship.” The Duchess also revealed how Steinem supported her personally. “[She] loved our children with her whole heart, counseled me during hard times and gave extraordinary advice and perspective with a cup of tea and an unrivaled cheekiness and wit,” Markle wrote.
One story stood out as Markle’s favorite memory of Steinem. She recalled a woman approaching the activist while hoping to introduce her young daughter. The mother worried that her daughter might not recognize Steinem. The feminist icon responded with a message Markle clearly treasured.
“It doesn’t matter if she knows who I am. What matters is that she knows who SHE is,” Steinem reportedly told the woman. Markle ended her tribute with a heartfelt farewell. “Rest in peace, and rest in pride. Look at what you’ve done for all of us. Thank you.”
Her post included three personal photographs. One showed Markle and Steinem sitting outside, while another featured Steinem with Prince Archie. The final image showed Steinem sitting beside Markle on a couch.
Steinem died at 92 at her New York City home, according to a statement shared through her Instagram account. The statement said she remained committed to equality until the end. Her cause of death remained unknown. Born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1934, Steinem helped shape the modern women’s movement.
She advocated for abortion rights and the Equal Rights Amendment. Steinem also co-founded Ms. magazine and helped launch New York magazine and the National Women’s Political Caucus.
Originally reported by Vanshika Vasundhare Singh on Reality Tea
