Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, now known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have often captured public attention for their candid moments and deep connection. A resurfaced video from 2018 has recently reminded royal watchers of the couple’s strong bond during one of their earliest public appearances together.
The footage, from the Commonwealth Day Service held at Westminster Abbey in March 2018, shows Prince Harry lightening the mood for Meghan Markle during her first official engagement with the late Queen Elizabeth II. Meghan, then newly engaged to Harry, appeared understandably reserved during the formal state event. A light-hearted moment shared between the two offered a glimpse into their authentic dynamic, one that continues to resonate with supporters today.
Meghan Markle’s First Official Royal Event
The 2018 Commonwealth Day Service marked a major milestone in Meghan’s journey into royal life. The event, which celebrates the diversity and unity of the Commonwealth of Nations, was attended by senior members of the British Royal Family, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince William, Princess Catherine, and Prince Harry.
Meghan, who was engaged to Harry at the time, joined the royal family in her first official engagement with the Queen. According to royal correspondents from BBC News and ITV, Meghan appeared composed but visibly cautious, as she adapted to royal protocols and public expectations.
What stood out most to viewers was a moment caught on camera during a musical performance at the service. As Liam Payne, a former member of the pop group One Direction, performed John Mayer’s “Waiting on the World to Change,” Prince Harry leaned over and raised his eyebrows playfully at Meghan. The gesture, subtle but effective, prompted laughter from Meghan, offering a moment of warmth in a formal setting.
Source:
- BBC News – Commonwealth Day 2018 Coverage
The Significance of the Commonwealth Day Service
Commonwealth Day, celebrated annually in March, is an important event for the British monarchy. The Queen, as Head of the Commonwealth, regularly emphasized the importance of cooperation among the 56 member states.
The service at Westminster Abbey includes performances, speeches, and prayers from across the Commonwealth, showcasing cultural diversity and shared values such as democracy, peace, and sustainability. Meghan’s presence at this event signaled her growing role in the royal family and the global platform she was stepping into.
Source:
- Commonwealth Secretariat – About Commonwealth Day
Harry and Meghan: Stepping Into the Spotlight
Following their wedding in May 2018, Prince Harry and Meghan quickly became one of the most high-profile couples in the world. They carried out a series of royal engagements both in the UK and abroad, often praised for their modern approach and relatability.
Despite initial popularity, the couple faced growing media scrutiny. In early 2020, they announced plans to step back as senior members of the royal family, seeking a more private and independent life. They now reside in Montecito, California, where they manage their charitable organization, the Archewell Foundation, and continue to support causes such as mental health awareness, gender equality, and community development.
Sources:
- Royal.uk – Duke and Duchess of Sussex
- Archewell Foundation
Meghan’s Advocacy for Mental Health and Well-being
One of the defining themes of Meghan’s public life has been her advocacy for mental health. During her 2019 interview with ITV News anchor Tom Bradby on the couple’s tour of southern Africa, Meghan opened up about the challenges of motherhood and public life.
When Bradby asked her, “Are you OK?” Meghan’s emotional response—”Thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if I’m OK”—sparked global conversations about emotional wellness, particularly for new mothers.
She later told CBS’s Jane Pauley in 2022 that she hoped her honesty would empower others to speak openly about their struggles. Meghan emphasized that sharing her experiences, particularly those involving anxiety and emotional exhaustion, was part of her personal healing journey and her effort to help others feel less alone.
“If me voicing what I have overcome will save someone or encourage someone to really, genuinely check in on themselves or others, then that’s worth it,” she said.
Sources:
- ITV News – Meghan Markle Interview
- CBS Sunday Morning – Meghan Markle Interview with Jane Pauley
Prince Harry’s Role as Supportive Partner
Throughout their public life, Prince Harry has been a steadfast source of support for Meghan. Whether offering comic relief during formal events or speaking out in defense of his wife in the face of media criticism, Harry has demonstrated his commitment to both family and personal values.
Harry has also opened up about his own emotional challenges, especially related to the loss of his mother, Princess Diana, and the pressure of royal life. His participation in mental health projects such as Heads Together, launched alongside Prince William and Princess Catherine, has helped normalize conversations around emotional well-being.
In recent years, Harry has continued to champion these causes through projects like the Netflix docuseries “The Me You Can’t See,” co-produced with Oprah Winfrey, where he shared personal stories about trauma and healing.
Sources:
- Heads Together – Royal Mental Health Campaign
- Apple TV – The Me You Can’t See
Moving Forward: A Focus on Empathy and Impact
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to chart a new path, their commitment to authenticity, compassion, and mental health advocacy remains central to their mission. The resurfaced video from 2018 serves as a reminder of the power of human connection—even in the most public and pressurized of settings.
Today, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are using their platform not only to raise awareness but also to foster community and create change. Whether through personal storytelling, philanthropic work, or global campaigns, they continue to influence conversations around mental health, social equity, and emotional resilience.
