Fresh tensions have reportedly emerged between Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton following controversy surrounding an upcoming wellness retreat linked to the Duchess of Sussex in Australia.
The event, scheduled to take place in Sydney, has drawn criticism after an influencer claiming to be attending sparked backlash by promoting a conspiracy theory questioning the Princess of Wales’ past cancer diagnosis.
According to media reports, the development has angered those close to Kate, with insiders suggesting she is frustrated that the retreat is proceeding despite the controversy. While the Duchess of Sussex is not directly linked to the comments, the association has raised concerns about the event’s oversight and guest selection.
A source familiar with the situation said the issue was not the retreat itself, but rather the individuals now publicly associating with it. “When someone loosely connected to an event has a history of promoting offensive and baseless claims, particularly on sensitive issues like illness, it inevitably changes public perception,” the source said.
The controversy has also reignited scrutiny over how guest lists for high-profile events are curated, especially when such events carry strong branding and public messaging. Analysts note that reputational risks can escalate quickly when participants linked to an event attract negative attention, even if organizers are not directly responsible.
Despite the backlash, there has been no official announcement of changes to the retreat’s schedule or guest lineup. Representatives for Meghan Markle have not publicly commented on the issue.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by public figures in managing large-scale events in the digital age, where online narratives and associations can significantly influence public opinion.
Observers say the episode highlights the sensitivity surrounding health-related issues and the potential fallout when misinformation becomes tied, even indirectly, to high-profile initiatives.