A brief backstage moment between Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle is back in the spotlight. According to Prince Harry‘s memoir, “Spare,” an awkward exchange between the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex over lip gloss hinted at deeper differences between the two women. At the time, Harry described it as a small misunderstanding. However, he also claimed it became one of several moments that later fueled speculation about tensions within the Royal Family.
Prince Harry described an awkward backstage exchange between Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton
Prince Harry claimed the now-famous lip gloss incident happened backstage before his wedding to Meghan Markle. In “Spare,” he claimed the “Suits” alum realized she had forgotten her lip gloss and asked Middleton if she could borrow hers.
Harry alleged the request appeared to catch Middleton off guard. He wrote that she reached into her handbag and “reluctantly” handed over a small tube. Markle then squeezed a little onto her finger before applying it to her lips.
According to Harry, Middleton then “grimaced.” However, he did not present the exchange as a major confrontation. Instead, he described it as a “small clash of styles.” He also reflected that it was something they “should’ve been able to laugh about” afterward (via HELLO! Magazine).
However, Harry claimed the moment did not simply fade away. He alleged it “left a little mark” between the two women. Soon afterward, he wrote, the media began picking up on signs of tension and turned them into a much bigger story.
Ironically, their relationship had reportedly started on a positive note. Following Harry and Markle’s engagement in 2017, Middleton and Prince William publicly welcomed the news. In a joint statement, they said they were “very excited” for the couple and praised how happy Harry looked with Markle.
Soon after, Middleton also spoke warmly to reporters. She said she and William wished the couple “all the best” and hoped they would enjoy the special moment together. The same warmth appeared to continue the following year. When Markle announced she was expecting Prince Archie, Middleton called it “such a special time.” She also said it would be wonderful for her children to have another cousin.
However, relations appear to have deteriorated in the years that followed. Harry has since spoken openly about family tensions in interviews and throughout “Spare,” while also expressing hope that reconciliation remains possible.
