Markle’s Dance Video: Authenticity Under Fire

Meghan Markle defends her viral delivery room dance video with Prince Harry amid criticism, standing firm on the importance of authenticity despite public scrutiny.

At a Glance

  • Meghan Markle addressed backlash over a video showing her dancing in the hospital while awaiting daughter Lilibet’s birth
  • The video was posted for Lilibet’s fourth birthday but was filmed in 2021, not recently as some assumed
  • Critics on social media described the moment as “fake and cringe,” prompting Markle to defend her authenticity
  • Markle emphasized she’s grateful to now have her own social media platform to share family moments on her terms
  • Since leaving royal duties in 2020, the couple has limited public exposure of their children Archie and Lilibet

Meghan Addresses the Dance Video Controversy

The Duchess of Sussex has responded to public criticism over a video showing her dancing in a hospital delivery room while awaiting the birth of her daughter. Speaking on the “Aspire” podcast with host Emma Grede, Markle directly addressed the controversy that erupted after she shared the personal footage on social media. The video, which shows Prince Harry and Meghan joyfully dancing before Princess Lilibet’s birth in 2021, sparked considerable backlash when it was posted for her daughter’s fourth birthday.

During the podcast appearance, Markle acknowledged the video’s viral status by asking the host, “Did you see my ‘Baby Momma’ dance?” The question led to a deeper discussion about authenticity in the face of public criticism. The former royal explained that while the video had garnered mixed reactions, with some finding it endearing and others criticizing it as attention-seeking, she remained steadfast in her decision to share genuine family moments. 

Standing Firm on Authenticity

In response to critics who labeled the delivery room dance video as “fake and cringe,” Markle offered a straightforward defense of her actions. She emphasized that despite the constant scrutiny that comes with her public profile, she refuses to compromise on showcasing authentic moments from her life. Her perspective reflects a deliberate choice to remain true to herself regardless of how the public might interpret her actions. 

The Duchess also expressed appreciation for having regained control over her narrative through social media. “I’m just grateful that now, being back on social media as well, I have a place where I can share it on my own terms,” Markle stated. This comment highlights her desire to present unfiltered glimpses into her family life without the mediation of royal protocols or tabloid interpretation, a significant shift from the restrictions she faced as a working royal.

Life After Royal Duties

Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to California, Markle and Prince Harry have carefully navigated sharing aspects of their family life while maintaining privacy for their children. The couple married in 2018, welcomed son Archie in 2019, and daughter Lilibet in 2021. Despite ongoing public interest in their lives, they have limited their children’s exposure to the media spotlight, avoiding public events with paparazzi presence. 

“Yes, I would ask people to tell the truth” – Markle. 

Recently, Markle shared additional family content, including a Father’s Day video tribute to Prince Harry featuring rare footage of him with their children. The family also enjoyed a trip to Disneyland, according to reports. When asked during the podcast interview what she would change about her public narrative if given the opportunity, Markle replied simply that she would ask people to tell the truth about her experiences, suggesting ongoing frustration with how her story has been portrayed in various media outlets.