Meghan Markle is shedding light on her early struggles in Hollywood, revealing that her freckles and mixed-race identity led to repeated rejections in her pursuit of a modeling and acting career.

Speaking on the April 29 episode of her hit podcast, “Confessions of a Female Founder,” the Duchess of Sussex spoke candidly with Jamie Kern Lima, founder of IT Cosmetics, about the challenges she faced early in her career.

“I couldn’t even be submitted for beauty or skincare ads because I had freckles,” Meghan Markle recalled. “They were like, ‘No, freckles aren’t a sign of beauty.’”

Her comments sparked conversation around long-standing beauty standards in the industry. Meghan added that her racial identity also complicated things:

“At the time, you were either the Black girl or the White girl. Everything was typecast. I wasn’t a perfect match for any box.”

Despite frequent auditions, Meghan said she heard “no” more than most, emphasizing how often she was rejected despite being seen by casting directors.

Meghan Markle Goes Makeup-Free on Podcast Appearance

The former actress also appeared makeup-free during her guest appearance on “The Jamie Kern Lima Show”, a bold move that drew praise from fans online.

Lima described their relaxed chat:

“We’re in our cozy sweats and no makeup. I’m inviting you into the rocking chairs with us.”

Fans celebrated the natural look of Meghan Markle, with one user on X saying, “How is Meghan even more beautiful and glowing without makeup?”

Meghan Markle Shares Her Secret Digital Time Capsule for Archie and Lilibet

During the interview, Meghan also shared a touching parenting tradition: she has created private email addresses for Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, where she regularly sends photos, report cards, and sweet memories.

“One day, maybe when they’re 16 or 18, I’ll say, ‘Here’s an email I’ve been keeping for you,’” Meghan said. “It’s about showing them, ‘I see you, I’m nurturing you.’”

The idea, she explained, is to create a digital time capsule filled with personal, meaningful moments that her children can one day reflect on.

Meghan Markle Reflects on Her Evolving Relationship With Prince Harry

Meghan also opened up about her relationship with Prince Harry, calling their current chapter “more of a honeymoon period” than ever before.

“At first, it was all butterflies, but then we went straight into the trenches,” Meghan recalled. “Now we finally have some breathing room — and it’s beautiful.”

She also had sweet words for Harry’s appearance and heart, gushing:

“My husband is very, very handsome. But his heart is even more beautiful.”

Key Takeaways:

• Meghan Markle’s freckles and race were once seen as barriers in modeling.

• The Duchess proudly went makeup-free, earning widespread fan praise.

• She’s creating a digital archive for Archie and Lilibet.

• Her relationship with Prince Harry is stronger than ever.