Did the Royal Family Watch 'Suits' Before Meghan Markle Joined Them?

Before she became the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle was known to millions as Rachel Zane, the sharp-witted and driven paralegal on the hit legal drama Suits. Her portrayal of Rachel, a character who epitomizes hard work and ambition, resonated with fans worldwide. From her journey to becoming an attorney to navigating complex relationships, Rachel's story is one of resilience and determination. Let’s delve into what made this character so iconic.

Rachel Zane: The Heart of Suits

Rachel Zane, played by Meghan Markle, stands out as one of the most memorable characters in Suits. Known for her intelligence, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to justice, Rachel quickly became a fan favorite. Her relationship with Mike Ross (played by Patrick J. Adams) added layers of depth to the show, creating moments of both tension and tenderness. Whether it was her fierce dedication to her career or her heartfelt personal struggles, Rachel consistently captivated audiences.

One of the standout aspects of Rachel's character is her ability to rise above challenges. She worked tirelessly to earn her law degree while balancing demanding responsibilities at Pearson Specter Litt. This narrative arc not only showcased her growth but also inspired viewers to pursue their dreams relentlessly. As Meghan Markle herself once said during an interview, Rachel knows what it means to work hard to get noticed.

The Rise of Suits: A Cultural Phenomenon

Suits, which premiered in 2011, follows the story of Mike Ross, a brilliant but unmotivated college dropout recruited by Harvey Specter, one of Manhattan's top corporate lawyers. Despite lacking formal legal training, Mike possesses a photographic memory and street smarts that make him an invaluable asset to the firm. Together, Mike and Harvey form an unstoppable duo, tackling high-stakes cases with wit and strategy.

The show gained widespread acclaim for its engaging plotlines, well-developed characters, and sleek production values. Over its nine seasons, Suits amassed a loyal following, thanks in part to its charismatic cast, including Gabriel Macht as Harvey Specter, Sarah Rafferty as Donna Paulsen, and Rick Hoffman as Louis Litt. However, no discussion of Suits would be complete without mentioning Meghan Markle, whose portrayal of Rachel Zane left an indelible mark on the series.

A New Chapter: Suits LA

With the conclusion of the original Suits series in 2019, fans were eager to see where the storylines would go next. Enter Suits LA, a spinoff set in Los Angeles that continues the legacy of the beloved show. While some key players from the original series have returned, others, like Meghan Markle, remain absent due to her royal duties. Nevertheless, there's always hope for her return, as creator Aaron Korsh has expressed openness to bringing Rachel back if circumstances align.

In interviews, Meghan Markle has fondly recalled her time on Suits, acknowledging the lasting impact the role had on her life. Speaking at the world premiere of Suits LA, she shared insights into her experience on the show and expressed excitement about its continued success. I'm not surprised that people are rediscovering Suits, because it was so well-crafted, she told PEOPLE magazine.

Why Suits Continues to Thrive

Even after its initial run ended, Suits remains a cultural touchstone, particularly among streaming audiences. According to Nielsen's latest weekly streaming report, the series has surpassed 45 billion minutes streamed on platforms like Netflix and Peacock combined. Fans continue to discover—and rediscover—the show, drawn by its compelling narratives and relatable characters.

Gabriel Macht, who reprises his role as Harvey Specter in Suits LA, attributes much of the show's enduring appeal to its timeless themes. It's about ambition, loyalty, and finding your place in the world, he explained in a recent interview. For many viewers, these elements resonate deeply, making Suits more than just entertainment—it's a reflection of real-life aspirations and challenges.

Beyond the Screen: Meghan Markle's Legacy

As Meghan Markle transitioned from acting to her current role as the Duchess of Sussex, she carried forward the same qualities that defined Rachel Zane—grit, empathy, and a commitment to meaningful change. Although her departure from Suits marked the end of an era, her influence on the show lives on through the character she brought to life.

In a nod to her roots, Meghan Markle revealed in a candid interview that she still holds onto a cherished memento from her Suits days—a piece of jewelry that symbolizes her connection to Rachel Zane. Such gestures underscore her appreciation for the experiences that shaped her journey and remind fans of the lasting bond between actress and character.

Ultimately, Suits serves as a testament to the power of storytelling. Through its exploration of ambition, relationships, and personal growth, the show has touched countless lives, inspiring viewers to strive for excellence and embrace their unique paths. And while the world may have changed since its debut, the essence of Suits—and the heart of Rachel Zane—endures, continuing to captivate new generations of fans.