Meghan | Preview (5)

She’s one of the most controversial women in the world. Admired by some, vilified by others, she’s a global icon that’s never far from the headlines. Some hail her as an inspiration to women the world over, others denounce her as the person who nearly brought down the Royal Family. But who is Meghan really?

This explosive two-part series peels back the layers of this unique woman who went from ordinary LA schoolgirl to almost destroying the British monarchy. Using rarely seen archive, this revealing series explores the extraordinary rise and fall of Meghan. Told by those who know her best, both in the US and UK, candid interviews from those in her inner circle and royal experts will expose the real Meghan. But what will they discover?

This episode charts how a strong ambitious streak, which emerges when Meghan is a young girl, propels her onto the global stage and on a collision course with the British Royal Family

By the age of 12, Meghan makes national headlines for the first time. She complains about a sexist washing-up ad and successfully and gets the wording changed. The following news coverage gives her a taste of the limelight and a few years later she gets a break as a ‘briefcase girl’ on Deal Or No Deal.

This documentary reveals how during her years of trying to hit the big time, it’s alleged that Meghan starts an anonymous blog called The Working Actress. Although the blog has since been deleted, the film shows contentious posts including advice to young female actors on how to get noticed; "Sometimes I need to look like a slut, so it’s helpful to know that red gets the job done".

Meghan then gets her big break, one that will catapult her to global stardom. She is cast in the hit legal drama Suits. Meghan’s capitalises on her new fame, starting her own lifestyle blog called The Tig. It gives Meghan a way to raise her profile. She is now a successful TV star and influencer.

But on visit to London, Meghan ends up on a date which changes everything. It’s a date with Prince Harry. They hit it off and after 4 months of keeping their relationship secret, it’s exposed to the world.

This level of fame comes at a price as she is pursued by the paparazzi and attacked on social media. Things get so bad, that she needs round the clock security. An interview with Steve Davis, Meghan’s former close protection officer, reveals what life was like inside the eye of the media storm.

Meghan moves into Kensington Palace where she meets her future in-laws, William and Kate. But her over familiarity is at odds with Kate’s traditional manner. And things are about to get worse as Meghan and Harry announce their engagement. Behind palace gates there are reports that this rise in popularity sees a change in Meghan with reports of alleged bullying.

Meghan begins Saturday 3rd January on 5.