'Raised eyebrows' in palace as Oprah posts about Meghan's start-up investment
The Duchess of Sussex has marked an exciting new milestone in her post-'royal exit' life, investing in a female-led startup company.
However, it's claimed the news has 'raised some eyebrows' in the palace, largely thanks to an Instagram post from TV icon and close friend of the Sussexes, Oprah Winfrey.
RELATED: Meghan speaks about pandemic in surprise TV spot
Oprah posted about a gift from "M" on Instagram. Instagram
As news emerged that Meghan had invested in Clevr Blends, Winfrey revealed the duchess had sent her some of the instant oat milk lattes the company produces.
"On the first day of Christmas my neighbor 'M' sent to me...a basket of deliciousness!" she wrote, adding, "Yes that M" with a crown emoji to confirm her identity.
"My new drink of choice for the morning and night. Wish I had @clevrblends sooner cause I would've added it to my Favorite Things list. #HappyHolidays."
Meghan has invested in a startup company that produces 'healthy' instant lattes. CNN
Now, a source tells The Sun Winfrey's use of the crown emoji has proven controversial, given the terms of Prince Harry and Meghan's departure from their roles as senior working royals.
"It is hard to see how emojis apparently trading on royal connections is respecting the values of the royal family," the palace 'insider' told the publication.
RELATED: Harry and Meghan deny claim their Archewell awards will rival the Queen
After the Sussexes announced their plan to forge a financially independent life away from the UK, firm conditions were drawn up regarding how they would approach any commercial dealings.
Oprah's Instagram caption, with the crown emoji in reference to Meghan's royal title. Instagram
It was decided they would no longer use the branding 'Sussex Royal' and cease using their His/Her Royal Highness titles.
"While they can no longer formally represent The Queen, the Sussexes have made clear that everything they do will continue to uphold the values of Her Majesty," read a statement at the time.
In short, Harry and Meghan are expected to not use their royal connections for financial purposes.
Harry and Meghan stepped down from their roles as senior working royals at the start of 2020. AP
According to The Sun's source, Winfrey's use of the crown emoji in reference to the Duchess of Sussex — a clear nod to her royal connections — was "noted".
For her part, Meghan seems excited about her latest venture.
RELATED: Why Meghan was ready to share her miscarriage story
In a statement to Fortune magazine, she described Clevr Blends' founder Hannah Mendoza as a "passionate female entrepreneur who prioritises building community alongside her business".
Meghan is now an investor. AP
"I'm proud to invest in Hannah's commitment to sourcing ethical ingredients and creating a product that I personally love and [that] has a holistic approach to wellness," she said.
"I believe in her, and I believe in her company."
Most viewed in Royals
Norwegian royal family member dies just days after King Harald’s state funeral
Grace Kelly’s granddaughter engaged after decade-long romance
Prince William and Kate back return to official duties with subtle nod to Prince Harry
Fresh blow for Prince Harry days after King’s letter clarifying his and Meghan’s royal status
