Meghan Markle Unpacks Stereotypes: From 'Bimbo' to Bold Voice on 'Archetypes'

In a powerful and profoundly personal season of her "Archetypes" podcast, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, peeled back the curtain on some of her most formative and challenging experiences, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and resilience. Far from the fairytale narratives often associated with royalty, Meghan’s revelations focused on the often-demeaning societal labels women contend with, particularly the insidious "bimbo" stereotype.

A significant portion of her candid discussions centered on her time as a briefcase model on the game show "Deal or No Deal." Meghan vividly recounted the discomfort and frustration she felt during her stint, explaining how the role made her feel "objectified." She wasn't celebrated for her intellect or her aspirations but rather reduced to a "trophy," valued solely for her appearance.

"I was thankful for the job, but not for how it made me feel," she confessed, highlighting the dichotomy of needing work while struggling with its impact on her sense of self.

The Duchess detailed the backstage environment, where models would line up, undergoing rigorous checks for their appearance, from hair and makeup to the precise padding of their bras.

This meticulous attention to superficiality, coupled with the pressure to look a certain way, left her feeling devoid of substance. She longed for conversations about weighty global issues, only to find herself surrounded by a culture that prioritized aesthetics above all else. This experience, she shared, was a pivotal moment in her decision to leave the show, a move she felt was essential to reclaim her voice and identity.

Meghan's podcast isn't just a platform for her own stories; it's a space for broader conversations.

She welcomed global icon Mariah Carey to delve into the complexities of the "diva" label, dissecting how it can be both an empowering term and a pejorative one, often used to diminish successful women. In another compelling episode, she sat down with socialite Paris Hilton, challenging the preconceived notions of "bimbo" and "ditsy" and exploring the carefully constructed personas women sometimes adopt, or are forced into, by public perception.

Through these poignant discussions, Meghan Markle has established "Archetypes" as more than just a podcast; it's a movement.

It's a space where women can dissect the societal boxes they're placed in, challenge the stereotypes that seek to define them, and ultimately, celebrate their multifaceted identities. Her journey from feeling objectified on a game show to becoming a vocal advocate for substantive dialogue underscores a powerful message: true worth lies not in appearance, but in intellect, character, and the courage to challenge the status quo.