Meghan Markle's true feelings during first 'intimidating' royal engagement with Queen Elizabeth II 'revealed'
Meghan joined the monarch for an engagement in Chester in June 2018
Queen Elizabeth II’s first outing with Meghan Markle in Chester offered a rare insight into the duchess’ mindset during her early days as a royal, a body language expert has explained.
When Meghan Markle, 43, stepped into royal life following her wedding to Prince Harry on May 19, 2018, she likely knew the scrutiny would be intense.
But just weeks after becoming the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan faced one of the most high-profile and nerve-wracking challenges yet: a solo engagement with Queen Elizabeth II.
On June 14, 2018, Meghan accompanied Her Majesty on a royal visit to Chester, marking her first official joint appearance with the monarch.
And while the pair appeared perfectly polished in photos, smiling, laughing, and warmly interacting, a body language expert revealed that behind Meghan’s graceful presence was a whirlwind of emotion.
Meghan Markle’s ‘feelings’ during engagement with Queen Elizabeth II
“When Meghan first came on the scene, she was keen to fit in and adhere to royal protocols,” said body language expert Darren Stanton, speaking on behalf of Betfair Casino.
“Everything was new to her, which would feel slightly intimidating to anyone. We saw a much different kind of Meghan at this engagement. Although she’s a confident woman, you could see she felt slightly nervous.”
According to Darren, Meghan demonstrated classic self-reassurance gestures, such as placing her hands near her chest or face, subtle indicators of inner nerves.
“She came across as extremely respectful to the queen and was keen to put herself in a good light and build rapport,” he added.
“There was almost this tentative nervousness. She was stepping forward, then stepping back, and then she obviously asked the queen who should get in the car first.”
The fact that the two of them were appearing together as a double act was quite unique.
This moment emphasised how earnestly Meghan was trying to learn the ropes and how new the environment was to her.
Despite Meghan’s understandable anxiety, the queen appeared relaxed and even joyful. Darren described the late monarch as “genuinely embracing” Meghan, noting their shared laughter and close body positioning throughout the visit.
He noted that the queen displayed a “genuinely authentic smile”. “Both of them were leaning in towards each other,” Darren added. “A natural, unconscious reaction between people who feel comfortable and at ease.”
It wasn’t just a formal pairing. According to Darren, the rapport between Meghan and the queen was genuine and immediate.
“You could sense a genuine and deep connection between them on the day,” he observed. “The fact that the two of them were appearing together as a double act was quite unique. At the time, it was evident that the queen truly embraced Meghan.”
Did Meghan curtsy to the queen?
Royal watchers have long speculated about Meghan’s respect for royal tradition, particularly when it comes to greeting the monarch.
Meghan recalled her first meeting with the queen during hers and Harry’s 2022 Netflix docuseries. She discussed the deep curtsy she performed for the monarch in private.
The duchess admitted she didn’t realise protocol carried on behind closed doors.
Meghan explained to the camera: “I thought it was a joke. Now I’m starting to realise this is a big deal.”
Sitting alongside Harry, Meghan said: “Americans will understand this. I curtsied as though I was like..” before performing a deep bow as Harry watched on.
Sitting back up, Meghan smiled and said: “‘Please to meet you, Your Majesty.’ It was so intense.”
While Meghan has since stepped back from royal duties alongside Harry, her early engagements showcased a woman deeply committed to the role and to earning the respect of her new family.
Read more: Trooping the Colour: Royal family’s ‘significant message’ to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
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