LOS ANGELES, Nov 8: The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has made a surprise return to acting, appearing on the set of the film Close Personal Friends in Pasadena, California — a move that has drawn wide attention and speculation about her professional and financial future.

Photographed on set wearing a blue striped shirt, white jeans, and dark sunglasses, the Duchess appeared confident and cheerful as filming took place. A source told People magazine that she “seemed very relaxed and happy,” describing her as “sweet and down-to-earth.”

The film, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, stars Lily Collins, Brie Larson, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding. It is described as a romantic comedy centered on two couples — one famous and one not — who become friends while on vacation. Meghan will make a cameo appearance as herself, marking her first on-screen role since stepping away from acting to join the British royal family.

Before her marriage to Prince Harry, Meghan, 44, worked as an actress, most notably in the long-running legal drama Suits. Her return to the screen follows her earlier statements that she had no plans to resume acting. In a 2022 interview with Variety, she said: “I’m done… my intention is to absolutely not.”

A source close to the production told The Sun that Meghan’s participation “signifies a return to doing what she truly loves,” adding that “Prince Harry is fully supportive and wants Meghan to do what brings her joy.”

However, several sources familiar with the couple’s professional operations said the decision marks a significant shift from previously discussed plans. According to insiders, acting had not been part of Meghan’s long-term strategy, suggesting that the move could signal a reevaluation of priorities following challenges in other ventures.

The Sussexes’ lifestyle reportedly costs around USD 4 million annually, including security and housing. While some have speculated financial pressures may have influenced Meghan’s return, others note that the couple recently made sizable charitable contributions — including a personal £1.1 million donation by Prince Harry to BBC Children in Need and support for hurricane relief in Jamaica — indicating continued financial stability.

Observers note that Meghan’s latest career shift follows a period of mixed results in her business and media ventures. The couple’s production company, Archewell, has faced difficulties delivering successful projects following their 2022 Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan. Other series, such as Heart of Invictus and With Love, Meghan, did not achieve the same level of success.

Meghan also launched her lifestyle brand “As Ever” (originally “American Riviera Orchard”), which has faced delays and rebranding challenges. Products sold out quickly upon launch but restocking and distribution were slow, while plans for retail expansion are ongoing.

Industry analysts note that Meghan’s public profile has shifted between various creative and entrepreneurial directions, including podcasting, philanthropy, and fashion. She recently attended Paris Fashion Week and appeared on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar, describing herself as a “female brand founder.”

Sources within the couple’s circle suggest that the decision to return to acting may reflect a renewed focus on visibility and relevance in the entertainment industry. “She has explored many avenues — this may be about returning to what she knows best,” said one industry observer.

Alongside her acting return, Meghan also launched a new sparkling wine under her “As Ever” label — the 2021 Vintage Napa Valley Brut, retailing at £68. The wine is described as featuring “notes of green apple, pear, citrus, and white peach” and is presented in a matte-black bottle embossed with the gold “As Ever” logo.

The launch was celebrated at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village in California, a luxury venue known for its spa and wellness amenities. The event highlighted Meghan’s continued focus on lifestyle and brand-building as she navigates a new phase in her post-royal career.

Whether the return to acting represents a strategic reinvention or a new chapter in her evolving professional story remains to be seen.