Meghan Markle is once again at the center of controversy—this time for an emotional podcast appearance that has drawn fierce criticism from high-profile commentators Joe Rogan and Megyn Kelly. The former Duchess of Sussex appeared to get choked up while speaking on a recent episode of a popular podcast, sharing personal struggles, vulnerability, and what she described as emotional pain tied to public life and media scrutiny.

But not everyone is convinced.

During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, the popular podcaster didn’t mince words when reacting to Meghan’s tearful moment. “It looked rehearsed,” Rogan said. “She knows what she’s doing. That wasn’t someone breaking down—that was someone performing a breakdown.”

Rogan, known for his blunt takes and wide audience reach, went on to criticize what he sees as a growing trend of celebrities “manufacturing vulnerability” to win public sympathy. He accused Meghan of weaponizing emotion for media gain, noting that “if it was real, it wouldn’t feel so perfectly timed.”

Echoing Rogan’s sentiment was journalist and commentator Megyn Kelly, who has long been an outspoken critic of Meghan and Prince Harry. On her own podcast, Kelly described Markle’s behavior as “disingenuous,” going as far as calling the emotional display “strategic manipulation.”

“She’s mastered the art of selective sadness,” Kelly claimed. “Every time the narrative doesn’t favor her, out come the tears. And every time, the public is expected to just believe it without question.”

The criticism has reignited a broader debate about authenticity in the public sphere—especially among celebrities who build brands around personal struggle and emotional transparency.

Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions. Hashtags like #FakeTears and #MeghanMarkle trended for hours after clips of the podcast and Rogan’s reaction were shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok. Some users sided with Rogan and Kelly, accusing Meghan of using emotional manipulation to distract from other controversies. Others defended her, arguing that public figures—especially women—are unfairly scrutinized for showing emotion.

“Why is it that when a woman cries in public, it’s automatically performative?” one user posted. “Men like Rogan and Kelly are part of the reason women hide their emotions.”

Public opinion remains deeply divided. Royal fans and supporters of Meghan rallied behind her, accusing critics of bullying and misogyny. Meanwhile, skeptics see the moment as just another calculated media move by someone who knows how to control the narrative.

The timing of this controversy is also worth noting. Meghan and Prince Harry have been working to revitalize their media brand, recently launching a new production deal and exploring various podcasting and streaming opportunities. Critics claim the emotional tone of her latest interview may be part of a larger strategy to gain back public support after a mixed reception to earlier content.

Experts in PR and media psychology have weighed in as well. Dr. Lila Warren, a media behaviorist, noted: “There’s no doubt Meghan understands media timing and emotional messaging. Whether or not she’s being manipulative is ultimately a subjective interpretation, but what’s clear is that she’s controlling her narrative tightly.”

As the debate continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Meghan Markle remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern media. Loved by many, loathed by others, and constantly at the intersection of celebrity, politics, and royalty—her every word, and tear, is scrutinized.

For now, Meghan has not responded to Rogan and Kelly’s comments. But if history is any indicator, she may address the controversy head-on—perhaps with another emotionally charged media appearance that will, once again, split public opinion down the middle.