Markle’s appearance in Close Personal Friends signals a new creative chapter for the Duchess as she balances royal life with Hollywood ambitions.
Seven years after leaving her acting career behind, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is quietly stepping back into Hollywood. The former Suits star is joining the ensemble cast of Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming comedy Close Personal Friends, marking her first on-screen role since 2017.
A Star-Studded Ensemble
The comedy, currently filming across Los Angeles and Pasadena, features a lineup of acclaimed stars including Lily Collins, Brie Larson, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding. Supporting roles will be played by Saturday Night Live alum Melissa Villaseñor, What We Do in the Shadows star Natasia Demetriou, Anna Konkle, and Patti Harrison.
Industry insiders reveal that Markle’s appearance is a cameo, but one that has already generated significant buzz within Hollywood circles. Reports suggest that she will portray a version of herself in the light-hearted film, which follows a regular couple whose friendship with a famous duo spirals into comic social chaos.
Back to the Creative World
According to People magazine, Markle appeared “relaxed and happy” on set, greeting crew members warmly and embracing the collaborative atmosphere. An insider told The Sun that this role represents a “tentative but deliberate” re-entry into the creative world she left behind after marrying Prince Harry in 2018.
“It’s a massive moment for Meghan and signifies a return to doing what she truly loves,” the source added.
From ‘Suits’ to the Silver Screen Again
Before becoming Duchess of Sussex, Markle was best known for her role as Rachel Zane in the hit legal drama Suits, appearing in seven seasons before her departure in 2017. Her earlier film credits include Horrible Bosses and Remember Me, alongside a number of guest television roles.
Since leaving acting, Meghan and Prince Harry have focused on philanthropic and media ventures through their Archewell Productions company, creating projects such as the Netflix docuseries Live to Lead, the upcoming series Polo, and Meghan’s lifestyle program With Love, Meghan.
A Thoughtful Return to Hollywood
Observers describe Markle’s return as intentional and measured. Rather than a full-fledged comeback, her cameo is seen as a way to reconnect with her creative roots while balancing her family and advocacy commitments.
“It’s Meghan’s way of gently putting her toe back in the water,” said one industry insider. “She’s choosing projects that align with her values and allow her creative freedom.”
Support from Prince Harry
Prince Harry has reportedly been fully supportive of his wife’s return to acting and was even spotted visiting the set during early filming sessions. The couple, who stepped down from royal duties in 2020, now reside in Montecito, California, with their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
Anticipation Builds for Release
While Amazon MGM Studios has not announced an official release date for Close Personal Friends, multiple entertainment outlets including Variety, Deadline, and People have confirmed Markle’s involvement. Her brief on-screen appearance is already expected to be one of the film’s most talked-about highlights.
As the Duchess of Sussex steps back into Hollywood, her subtle return marks a symbolic full circle from her early acting days to global fame, and now, a new creative chapter on her own terms.