Meghan Markle's Vogue Cover Demands Sparked Rift with Edward Enninful: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
The relationship between Meghan Markle and British Vogue's former editor-in-chief, Edward Enninful, reportedly fractured over the duchess's involvement in her 2018 cover shoot. New reports detail a series of 'impossible' demands made by Markle, leaving Enninful feeling frustrated and ultimately contributing to a breakdown in their professional dynamic.
The 2018 cover featuring Meghan, then heavily pregnant with Archie, was widely celebrated as a landmark moment for diversity and representation in fashion. However, behind the glossy images lay a complex and, according to insiders, tense negotiation process. Markle, who had recently guest-edited the September issue, allegedly exerted significant control over every aspect of the shoot, from the photographers and clothing to the final edit.
Sources close to Enninful have revealed that Markle's requests were not only extensive but also unrealistic, often interfering with the editorial team's established processes. These demands reportedly included specific instructions on which photographers to use, a detailed list of approved clothing items (many from brands she had previously endorsed), and significant input on the final layout and captions. One particularly contentious point was Markle's desire to control the narrative surrounding her pregnancy and personal life, pushing for a portrayal that aligned with her own vision.
“Edward was incredibly supportive of Meghan and her desire to use the platform of Vogue to champion important causes,” explained a source. “However, her level of control and the number of demands became unsustainable. It created a difficult working environment and ultimately strained their relationship.”
The situation reportedly escalated when Enninful resisted some of Markle's more assertive requests, arguing that they compromised the magazine's editorial integrity. This led to disagreements and a growing sense of frustration on both sides. While Enninful publicly praised Markle's contribution to the issue, the internal tensions were clearly simmering.
This isn’t the first time concerns about Markle’s influence and exacting standards have surfaced. Similar reports have emerged regarding her time at the Palace, where her desire for control reportedly caused friction with royal staff. The Vogue incident provides further insight into a pattern of behaviour that has contributed to the Duchess's often-complex public image.
Enninful's departure from Vogue in early 2024, after nearly three years in the role, was officially attributed to a desire to focus on personal projects. However, some speculate that the fallout from the Markle cover shoot, and the subsequent challenges in maintaining editorial independence, may have played a role in his decision. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the delicate balance between celebrity influence and journalistic integrity, and the potential consequences of crossing that line.
Ultimately, the story highlights the complexities of navigating celebrity collaborations in the media landscape, and the importance of safeguarding editorial independence. While Meghan Markle's appearance on the cover of Vogue was a cultural moment, the events surrounding its creation reveal a less glamorous and far more complicated reality.
