The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has officially stepped back in front of the camera. The former Suits star was photographed on November 5 filming a cameo for Close Personal Friends, marking her first dramatic on-screen role in years.

Witnesses described Meghan as “relaxed and engaged” on set, chatting comfortably with crew members and fellow castmates.

The new film, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, features a high-profile ensemble that includes Brie Larson, Lily Collins, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding.

Meghan will reportedly play herself in a brief cameo appearance, adding a layer of realism to the movie’s celebrity-centered storyline.

According to People magazine, Meghan introduced herself warmly to cast and crew and appeared “down-to-earth and genuinely happy” to be back on set after several years away from acting.

Storyline close to home

The movie follows an ordinary couple who develop an unexpected friendship with a celebrity pair during a trip to Santa Barbara — a region famously home to Meghan and Prince Harry.

The storyline’s resemblance to the Sussexes’ real-life environment adds an intriguing, almost self-reflective element to Meghan’s role.

Why this role matters

This marks Meghan Markle’s first acting credit since 2017, when she departed Suits after her engagement to Prince Harry was announced.
While she had previously stated she was leaving Hollywood behind, a studio insider told reporters that this cameo “felt right” — describing it as a gentle, creative re-entry into her former craft.

“Meghan saw this project as light-hearted, meaningful, and aligned with her values,” the source said.

Prince Harry’s support and creative direction

Sources close to the couple say Prince Harry fully supports Meghan’s decision to return to acting. Friends noted that both view this as part of a broader creative chapter, in line with their production work through Archewell.

The move could also signal a renewed focus on storytelling and media projects, continuing the couple’s evolution from royal duties to creative ventures in entertainment.