The Duchess of Sussex has sparked controversy after posting a video from her car ride through Paris during Fashion Week — a clip many claim showed “insensitivity” toward her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana.
Meghan Markle was in the French capital over the weekend to attend Balenciaga’s Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show, marking her first appearance at Paris Fashion Week. Dressed in a sculptural white cape and matching shirt, she cut a striking figure as she joined fashion’s elite at the event.
But the Duchess’s social media post from her time in the city quickly drew criticism. In the short Instagram clip, Meghan appeared relaxed in the back of a limousine, her feet propped casually on the seat as the car glided through the streets of Paris. Viewers noticed that the vehicle passed several iconic landmarks — including Pont Alexandre III and Pont des Invalides — before seemingly heading toward the Pont de l’Alma, the tunnel where Princess Diana tragically died in 1997.
The proximity of the clip’s setting to the site of the crash struck a nerve, especially given Prince Harry’s long-documented grief over his mother’s death. “She knew exactly what she was doing,” one social media user wrote. Another commented, “That’s incredibly insensitive and inappropriate on every level. Shameful.”
Others accused Meghan of being inconsiderate toward her husband’s feelings. “She really doesn’t care about Harry’s anxiety. Why post this if you know it triggers him?” one critic asked. Another simply called it “No respect.”
Still, not everyone agreed with the outrage. Some fans defended her, arguing the backlash was overblown. “Omg seriously, this is a stretch,” one user replied under the video.
The controversy unfolded just as Meghan was earning praise for her polished appearance at the Balenciaga show. Her minimalist white ensemble, paired with black pointed heels and a sleek bun, drew admiration from supporters who described her as “radiant,” “peaceful,” and “utterly chic.” Yet detractors mocked the look as “shapeless” or “like a toilet paper roll,” turning her Paris debut into a battleground of opinions.
According to a spokesperson for the Duchess, Meghan’s attendance at the Balenciaga show wasn’t a casual visit but a gesture of support for the brand’s new creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli. “The Duchess has worn a number of designs by Pierpaolo over the years,” the spokesperson explained. “They’ve collaborated on pieces for key public moments, and her attendance reflects a shared appreciation for his artistic vision.”
Despite her intention to celebrate fashion, Meghan’s Paris trip ended up reigniting familiar controversy — a reminder that, for the Duchess of Sussex, even a simple video post can stir global debate.
