Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has made a surprising return to acting with a cameo appearance in the upcoming film “Close Personal Friends,” marking her first on-screen role in eight years since her departure from the legal drama “Suits.”
The film, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, is currently shooting in the Los Angeles area and features a prominent cast including Lily Collins, Brie Larson, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding. Meghan was photographed on the set in Pasadena, California, on Tuesday, November 5, 2025, where she appeared cheerful and engaged, signaling her comfort in returning to her acting roots. This first look at her on set has generated significant buzz, with images showing her smiling and interacting with the crew.
According to multiple reports from CNN and Variety, Meghan’s role in the movie is a small cameo, and she is set to play herself. This development comes after she stepped away from acting upon her engagement to Prince Harry in 2017 and subsequent exit from senior royal duties in 2020. Her last acting credit was on “Suits,” which she left in 2018, and this return highlights a shift in her career trajectory post-royalty. The decision to take on this role was reportedly made recently, adding to the surprise element for fans and media alike.
“Close Personal Friends” is described as a comedy that follows a couple who meet and befriend a celebrity couple during a trip to Santa Barbara. This plot element resonates with Meghan’s personal life, as she and Prince Harry live in Montecito, Santa Barbara, with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. The setting adds an ironic twist to her involvement in the film, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Sources indicate that the movie explores themes of friendship and fame, which align with Meghan’s own experiences in the public eye.
Meghan’s acting career prior to royalty included roles in films such as “Horrible Bosses” and “Remember Me,” as well as her breakout role in “Suits.” Her return to the screen, even in a minor capacity, has sparked widespread interest and debate about her future in entertainment versus her royal associations. Many see this move as a way for her to reclaim her professional identity while navigating the constraints of her title. Industry experts note that cameo roles like this can serve as a low-risk re-entry into Hollywood.
In recent years, Meghan has focused on philanthropic efforts and media projects, including the Netflix series “With Love, Meghan” and her lifestyle brand As Ever, which offers products like jams, teas, and candles. This acting cameo appears to be a strategic move to maintain a presence in Hollywood while balancing her duties as a duchess. It also complements her and Harry’s broader media ventures under their Archewell production company, which aims to create impactful content.
The announcement of her return has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising her for pursuing her passions and others questioning the appropriateness of a royal family member engaging in commercial entertainment. Nonetheless, it underscores the evolving nature of modern royalty and the blurring lines between public service and personal career. Social media and news outlets have been abuzz with discussions about how this might influence public perception of the Sussexes.
As “Close Personal Friends” continues production, anticipation builds for its release, with Meghan’s cameo likely to attract additional viewers. Her participation highlights a potential new chapter in her post-royal life, blending her past expertise with current opportunities in the entertainment industry. The film is expected to be released in 2026, and its success could pave the way for more acting roles or collaborative projects for Meghan in the future.