Meghan Markle has once again found herself at the center of controversy — and this time, it’s all about how she travels. The Duchess of Sussex is facing heavy backlash after reports revealed she used a four-car motorcade for a night out in New York City.
According to a GB News report published Sunday, April 13, Meghan’s security convoy raised eyebrows when she attended Broadway’s Gypsy, starring Audra McDonald. The 42-year-old mom of two reportedly rode in one of three black SUVs, while the other two were completely empty except for drivers.
If that wasn’t enough, an unmarked police car was also trailing the vehicles as part of her security protocol, further amplifying the public outrage.
Sources told the outlet that the spectacle was not only “absolutely abnormal” but also “totally over-the-top and excessive.” One particularly stunned paparazzi insider didn’t hold back, calling Meghan’s convoy “ridiculous” and questioning whether New York taxpayers were footing part of the bill.
The criticism quickly picked up steam online, with many social media users echoing the sentiment that the Duchess may be going too far to project star power. “Meghan is out of control,” the source added, slamming the motorcade as an unnecessary display of celebrity status.
Fueling the fire, comparisons were drawn between Meghan and some of the most iconic names in entertainment — and the Duchess did not come out looking great. The insider pointed out that even Taylor Swift, one of the world’s most recognizable superstars, typically uses just two vehicles when out in public.
“Taylor rides in one, and the other is for security,” the source explained. “Simple, efficient, not drawing attention.” The contrast was stark — especially considering Swift’s global fame and intense fan following.
The insider didn’t stop there. Beyoncé, often dubbed “Queen Bey,” and Kim Kardashian, another pop culture titan, reportedly keep it even simpler. They often use just one car, occasionally two if traveling with family — a far cry from Meghan’s multi-car setup.
The backlash seems to underscore an ongoing issue for the Duchess: navigating public appearances without drawing accusations of extravagance. Critics argue her behavior contradicts the low-key, relatable image she and Prince Harry have worked hard to promote since leaving the royal fold.
Meghan’s NYC outing comes at a particularly sensitive time. While she was enjoying dinner at the Polo Bar and a glamorous night at the theater with friends, her husband, Prince Harry, was making headlines of his own — for very different reasons.
Harry, who had just appeared in a London courtroom for his ongoing security battle with the UK government, made a surprise visit to Ukraine shortly after. There, he met with wounded military personnel and visited a rehabilitation clinic, prompting praise for his dedication to humanitarian causes.
The stark contrast between Harry’s war-zone diplomacy and Meghan’s Broadway glitz only added fuel to the growing criticism. Many royal watchers and commentators have questioned whether the couple are aligned in their values — or increasingly leading separate public lives.
This isn’t the first time Meghan’s security arrangements have sparked debate. Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, both she and Harry have fought to maintain high-level security, citing ongoing safety concerns. However, critics argue that the couple’s protective measures often veer into the excessive.
Public scrutiny around Meghan’s lifestyle choices has been unrelenting in recent years, and this latest incident is likely to deepen the divide between her supporters and detractors. While fans defend her right to privacy and security, critics insist the extravagance sends the wrong message.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to shape their post-royal brand, one thing is clear — every move, every appearance, and every motorcade will be under the microscope. And if Meghan’s recent night out is any indication, the pressure to balance safety, humility, and public perception isn’t going anywhere.
