Long before she became a prominent global figure and a member of the British royal family, Meghan Markle was just a young girl in Los Angeles, seeking to find her place in the world.

Born to Doria Ragland, who is of Black descent, and Thomas Markle Sr., who is of white descent, Markle has candidly discussed the difficulties she encountered as a biracial child. Throughout various interviews, she has shared that there were times she felt trapped between different worlds, uncertain about how others viewed her identity.

Markle once referred to herself as a “latchkey kid,” frequently coming home to an empty house since both of her parents worked long hours. Her mother made a living as a makeup artist, while her father was involved in television production behind the scenes.

During those years, meals were often quick and simple, as she remembered, consisting of microwave dinners and fast food. Evenings sometimes included watching trivia shows like Jeopardy! while dining at a TV tray.

Not everyone shares Markle’s view of her early years. Her father has publicly challenged some elements of her childhood narratives, including her portrayal of growing up primarily on convenience foods. He has also mentioned that he regularly picked her up from school or arranged transportation when he was busy with work.