Meghan Markle's mum 'moves in with her and Harry' to help after 'tough year'

04 January 2024 , 14:50

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Doria Ragland is said to have moved in with the Sussexes (Image: Netflix)

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry had a "tough time" in 2023, with Meghan's mother Doria Ragland reportedly moving in with the couple to offer them a helping hand.

The 67-year-old has moved into the guesthouse at Meghan and Harry's Montecito mansion, according to a source. She's said to have been helping to look after the couple's children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, and has been "a rock" for the Duchess of Sussex.

The move has helped Doria avoid a three-hour car journey from her home in View Park-Windsor Hills, Los Angeles, whenever she wants to visit her family. The source said Doria "gets tired of the car rides", which was a big factor in her decision to move in.

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Doria Ragland is believed to have moved in with her daughter (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Speaking to The Express, the source said: "2023 was a tough year for both Harry and Meghan and Doria has been there for them." They said Doria now spends more time staying in Harry and Meghan's guesthouse than she does in her own house.

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They explained: "Doria has really been Meghan's rock over the past year. Not only has she been there for her daughter but has enjoyed helping to look after the grandchildren. Harry adores her as well and loves having her there."

Meghan is said to have lent on her mother over the past 12 months after a difficult year. In 2023, the Sussexes were axed from Spotify and their relationship with the Royal Family was thrown further into disrepair.

Meghan Markle has found 'a rock' in her mum (Getty Images)

Netflix also cancelled the development of Pearl, an animated series created by Meghan. Despite signing with talent agency WME in April, there have been no new projects announced for Meghan.

The Duke of Sussex is believed to find Doria's presence "refreshing", with the source suggesting Doria has become "the mother of the household". They added: "Harry appreciates the warmth and kindness that Doria brings to the family. He doesn’t get that from his side of the family."

Harry believes it is "important that the children are close with their grandmother." The source said Doria isn't always at the house as there are times when the family needs "alone time". They said she spends time in the guesthouse in order to "make herself scarce when needed".

Scarlett O'Toole