Stepping into the shoes of real-life figures is no easy feat, especially when those figures are Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The Lifetime movie, “Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance,” captures the whirlwind romance of the couple, from their first meeting to their fairytale wedding. But what was it like for the actors to portray such iconic individuals? Let’s hear from the stars themselves.
Embracing the Essence of the Characters
For Parisa Fitz-Henley, who portrays Meghan Markle, it was about capturing the Duchess’s essence rather than mimicking her every move. “I’m not trying to do a copycat impersonation,” she explains. “It was more about watching a lot of footage and hoping that subconsciously, something would come through.” The focus was on internalizing Meghan’s character, her confidence, and her poise.
Parisa Fitz-Henley as Meghan Markle in a scene from "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance"
Murray Fraser, who plays Prince Harry, shared a similar approach. “For both of us, it was very much an inside-out job,” he says. Understanding the motivations and emotions of the characters was key to portraying them authentically.
Finding the Human Connection
Beyond the royal titles and public personas, the movie delves into the human connection between Harry and Meghan. “I was really moved by how much of a friendship I felt like I saw with them,” shares Parisa. “Seeing how poised and confident she is, how supportive Harry is of her, and how supportive she is of him, it just makes me feel really good.”
The film highlights the relatable aspects of their relationship – the laughter, the shared moments, and the challenges they face as a couple. It’s a reminder that beneath the royal facade, they are two individuals who fell deeply in love.
Murray Fraser as Prince Harry smiles at Parisa Fitz-Henley as Meghan Markle in a scene from "Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance"
A Fairy Tale Rooted in Reality
While the world may view Harry and Meghan’s story as a modern-day fairy tale, the actors believe it holds a deeper meaning. “I think it’s actually just…it’s love,” says Parisa. “It’s something that we can all achieve and we all have, like, really beautiful moments in our lives if we take a look at them, if we really pay attention.”
“Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance” offers a glimpse into a love story that transcends social barriers and reminds us that fairy tales can exist in the most unexpected places. The film’s success lies in its ability to capture the genuine connection between the couple and their shared journey of love, support, and commitment.
