Montecito, California – Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has offered a rare glimpse into her personal sentiments about her time in the United Kingdom, revealing that she misses the country’s radio stations, particularly Magic FM, which she affectionately described as a “grandma” station. The revelation came during a conversation with fashion designer and television personality Tan France, where Meghan also shared that she now enjoys listening to a U.S.-based station called “Mom Jeans,” known for its vintage soft rock playlist. The comment, while lighthearted, provides a window into the Duchess’s life in California, where she and her husband, Prince Harry, have built a new home after stepping back from their roles as working royals in 2020. The couple’s decision to leave the UK and their subsequent lifestyle changes continue to captivate global audiences, making Meghan’s reflections a point of interest for fans and critics alike.
A Royal Exit That Shook the World
The story of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from royal life is one of the most significant chapters in recent British royal history. In January 2020, the couple announced their intention to step back from their roles as senior members of the royal family, citing a desire for financial independence and a more private life. The decision, often referred to as “Megxit” by media outlets, sent shockwaves through the UK and beyond, sparking intense debate about the monarchy, media scrutiny, and the couple’s motivations.
At the time, Harry and Meghan were among the most high-profile members of the royal family. As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, they had captured public imagination with their 2018 wedding, a fairy-tale event watched by millions worldwide. Their union was celebrated as a modern milestone for the monarchy, blending tradition with diversity and progressive ideals. Meghan, an American actress best known for her role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits, brought a unique perspective to the royal family, and her advocacy for women’s rights, mental health, and social justice resonated with many.
However, their time as working royals was marked by challenges, including relentless media scrutiny and reported tensions within the royal family. In their announcement, the couple expressed a desire to forge a new path, balancing their commitment to charitable work with a more independent lifestyle. They outlined plans to split their time between the UK and North America, but by mid-2020, they had relocated permanently to California, settling in Montecito, a coastal enclave known for its privacy and celebrity residents.
The move to the United States marked a significant shift for the couple. They signed lucrative deals with media companies, including Netflix and Spotify, to produce content aligned with their values. They also established the Archewell Foundation, a nonprofit focused on issues like mental health, gender equity, and community support. Their new life in California, where they are raising their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, reflects a deliberate pivot away from the constraints of royal protocol toward a more autonomous existence.
A Brief Return to the UK
Since their departure, Harry and Meghan have made only a handful of trips back to the UK. One notable visit occurred in September 2022, when they attended a charity event tied to the Invictus Games, a cause close to Harry’s heart. The Invictus Games, which he founded in 2014, supports wounded, injured, and sick military veterans through sports, and the couple’s appearance underscored their ongoing commitment to philanthropy.
Tragically, their visit coincided with the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022. The Queen’s passing at Balmoral Castle marked a historic moment for the monarchy and the world. Harry and Meghan extended their stay to attend the state funeral, joining other royals in mourning the longest-reigning British monarch. The funeral was a solemn occasion, and the couple’s presence, though understated, was closely watched by the public and media. Their participation in the events surrounding the Queen’s death was seen as a gesture of respect, despite their strained relationships with some members of the royal family.
Since that visit, Meghan has not returned to the UK, and Harry has made only occasional trips, often for legal matters related to his security arrangements or media lawsuits. The couple has been vocal about their decision not to resume full-time royal duties or relocate to the UK, citing concerns about privacy, safety, and their desire to chart their own course. Their absence from the UK has fueled speculation about their relationship with the royal family and their long-term plans, with some observers interpreting Meghan’s recent comments about missing UK radio as a rare expression of nostalgia for her time across the Atlantic.
Missing Magic FM: A Touch of Nostalgia
In her conversation with Tan France, a British-American fashion expert known for his role on Queer Eye, Meghan shared a lighthearted reflection on one aspect of British culture she misses: the country’s radio stations. Specifically, she singled out Magic FM, a popular UK station known for its mix of classic hits and contemporary pop, often appealing to a broad audience with its nostalgic and feel-good playlist. Meghan’s playful description of Magic FM as a “grandma” station suggests a fondness for its comforting, familiar sound, which may have provided a sense of normalcy during her time in the UK.
Magic FM, part of the Bauer Media Group, has been a staple of British radio since its launch in 1990. The station’s playlist, which includes artists like Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, and Adele, resonates with listeners seeking a mix of timeless classics and modern favorites. For Meghan, who lived in the UK from 2017 to 2020, Magic FM likely served as a backdrop to her daily life, whether during commutes, downtime at home, or moments of reflection amidst the whirlwind of royal duties.
Meghan’s mention of “Mom Jeans,” a U.S.-based radio station specializing in vintage soft rock, further highlights her affinity for music that evokes a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection. While “Mom Jeans” is not as widely known as Magic FM, its focus on artists like The Eagles, Journey, and Hall & Oates aligns with Meghan’s apparent taste for music that feels both timeless and personal. Her comparison of the two stations suggests a continuity in her musical preferences, bridging her past in the UK with her present in California.
The comment, though seemingly trivial, offers a rare glimpse into Meghan’s personal life, which she and Harry have guarded closely since leaving the royal family. It humanizes the Duchess, reminding the public that even high-profile figures find comfort in simple pleasures like music. For fans, it’s a relatable moment that underscores Meghan’s ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, a trait that made her a beloved figure during her acting career and early royal tenure.
The Broader Context: Life in California and Public Perception
Meghan’s reflection on missing UK radio comes at a time when she and Harry are navigating a complex public narrative. Their move to California has allowed them to pursue projects on their own terms, but it has also kept them in the spotlight, often for polarizing reasons. Their 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which they discussed their experiences within the royal family, including allegations of racism and mental health struggles, drew global attention and deepened divisions among royal watchers. Subsequent projects, such as Harry’s memoir Spare (2023) and their Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan (2022), further amplified their story, sparking both admiration and criticism.
In Montecito, the couple has embraced a lifestyle that balances high-profile media ventures with private family life. Their home, a sprawling estate purchased in 2020, offers the privacy they sought after years of intense scrutiny in the UK. Archewell, their foundation, has supported initiatives like mental health campaigns and disaster relief efforts, while their production company has produced content like the Netflix series Live to Lead, which profiles global leaders. These endeavors reflect their commitment to using their platform for social good, even as they navigate the challenges of maintaining relevance in a competitive media landscape.
Public reaction to Meghan’s comment about Magic FM has been varied, as seen on platforms like X. Supporters view it as a charming, relatable anecdote that highlights her ability to find joy in small moments. “Meghan missing Magic FM is so wholesome,” one user posted, while another wrote, “It’s nice to hear her talk about something normal, not just drama.” Critics, however, have used the comment to fuel ongoing narratives about her disconnect from the UK, with some sarcastically questioning why she would miss anything about a country she left behind. These reactions underscore the polarized lens through which the couple is often viewed, where even innocuous comments can spark debate.
The Cultural Significance of Radio
Meghan’s mention of radio stations also invites a broader discussion about the role of music and media in shaping personal and cultural identity. Radio, despite the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, remains a powerful medium for connecting people to their communities and memories. In the UK, stations like Magic FM serve as cultural touchstones, offering a shared soundtrack for listeners across generations. For Meghan, who lived in the UK during a transformative period of her life, radio likely provided a sense of grounding amidst the pressures of royal life.
In the U.S., Meghan’s affinity for “Mom Jeans” reflects a similar desire for music that feels personal and evocative. The term “mom jeans” itself evokes a sense of nostalgia, conjuring images of the 1980s and 1990s, when high-waisted denim and soft rock dominated popular culture. By drawing a parallel between Magic FM and “Mom Jeans,” Meghan highlights the universal appeal of music that transcends borders and eras, offering comfort and connection in an ever-changing world.
This sentiment resonates with broader trends in media consumption. According to a 2024 report by Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, radio remains a vital part of British life, with 89% of adults tuning in weekly. In the U.S., Nielsen data from 2025 indicates that radio reaches 91% of Americans monthly, with genres like classic rock and pop maintaining strong listenership. Meghan’s preference for radio over streaming platforms may reflect a desire for the curated, communal experience that radio offers, as opposed to the algorithm-driven playlists of digital services.
Implications for Harry and Meghan’s Future
Meghan’s comment about missing UK radio, while minor in isolation, raises questions about how she and Harry view their past and future. Their decision to step back from royal duties was driven by a desire for autonomy, but it has not shielded them from public scrutiny. Their life in California represents a bold reinvention, yet moments like this suggest a lingering connection to the UK, even if it’s through something as simple as a radio station.
The couple’s future plans remain a subject of speculation. Their media ventures, while successful, have faced challenges, including the termination of their Spotify deal in 2023 and mixed reception to some of their projects. However, their Netflix partnership continues to produce content, and Archewell remains a platform for their philanthropic goals. Harry’s ongoing legal battles in the UK, particularly over security arrangements, suggest that ties to the country persist, even if Meghan has not returned since 2022.
For Meghan, the mention of Magic FM may be a subtle nod to a chapter of her life that, while challenging, was formative. Her time in the UK shaped her public persona, from her advocacy work to her role as a working royal. While she and Harry have made it clear they have no intention of returning full-time, such reflections hint at a nuanced relationship with their past, one that acknowledges both the difficulties and the moments of joy.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s revelation that she misses UK radio stations like Magic FM offers a poignant glimpse into her life after royalty. It’s a reminder that even global figures find comfort in the familiar, whether it’s the soothing melodies of a British radio station or the nostalgic vibes of an American one. As she and Prince Harry continue to build their lives in California, their story remains one of reinvention, resilience, and navigating the complexities of public life.
The couple’s journey—from royal duties to a new chapter in Montecito—continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Meghan’s comment, shared in a candid moment with Tan France, underscores her ability to connect with people through shared experiences, like the universal love of music. As they move forward, Harry and Meghan will undoubtedly face new challenges and opportunities, but for now, the Duchess’s nostalgia for Magic FM serves as a small but meaningful bridge between her past and present.
For those interested in following Harry and Meghan’s journey, their work with Archewell and upcoming media projects can be explored through their official website or streaming platforms like Netflix. As this story evolves, it’s clear that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will continue to shape their narrative, one note at a time.
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