The Duchess of Sussex has joined a wave of online nostalgia, marking a decade with Prince Harry by sharing previously unseen, intimate footage from the early days of their romance.
A Decade of Love Captured on Camera
For her first Instagram post of 2026, Meghan Markle participated in a social media trend that has users looking back fondly at the year 2016. The trend, which has swept platforms like TikTok and Instagram, celebrates the mid-2010s as a "golden age" of internet culture and encourages people to "live 2026 like it's 2016".
The Duchess posted a charming black-and-white video, which she revealed was filmed by her young daughter, Princess Lilibet. The clip shows Meghan and Prince Harry sharing a kiss and a dance, offering a rare, personal glimpse into their private life. In the caption, she wrote: "When 2026 feels just like 2016….you had to be there." She gave special credit to her daughter with the note "Cred: Our daughter".
Botswana Trip Marks a Pivotal Moment
Alongside the moving video, Meghan included a photograph from a pivotal early moment in the couple's relationship. The picture captures the pair with their arms wrapped around each other during a trip to Botswana in August 2016. This holiday is widely reported to have been their third date, a time when their bond deepened away from the public eye.
The nostalgic movement was launched at the start of 2026 to commemorate the ten-year anniversary of 2016, aiming to recapture a sense of carefree fun from that era. The Duchess's heartfelt contribution has resonated widely with followers and royal watchers alike.
A Royal Context of Recovery and Change
This personal reflection from the Sussexes comes against a backdrop of significant events within the wider Royal Family. The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, continues on her road to recovery after announcing a cancer diagnosis in March 2024. She confirmed in January 2025 that her cancer was in remission after undergoing surgery and treatment.
Meanwhile, the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, faces a major life change as he prepares to leave his long-term home at Royal Lodge for a residence on the Sandringham estate, following his removal from public duties.
Meghan Markle's post stands as a sweet and personal counterpoint to these weightier royal narratives, focusing on family, love, and a decade of shared history with Prince Harry.
