This article deals with mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts.
Meghan Markle's shocking comment about a Royal Family member voicing concerns on how dark baby Archie's skin colour would be has fired up social media users from all around the world.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle revealed their side of the story in an explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey on Sunday (US time).
While pregnant with baby Archie, Markle said she was told her son wouldn't have a royal title, wouldn't be entitled to security, and was told there were concerns "about how dark his skin might be".
She also told Oprah she suffered suicidal thoughts during her pregnancy, after months of intense pressure and scrutiny.
"I just didn't want to be alive anymore," she said.
"And that was a very clear and real and frightening and constant thought. And I remember - I remember how he just cradled me."
Here are how social media users reacted to Meghan's revelations:
"Wow! Racism runs real deep, even in the Royal Family. They really missed an opportunity to step into the 21st century, and enhance their relevance," a Twitter user commented.
"Meghan is living the life Diana should have, if only those around her had been as brave as she was. Meghan isn't living a life without pain, but a life without a prison," poet and activist Amanda Gorman said.
"This isn't Meghan's princess 'happy' ending. But sometimes change, the decisions that bring us the most hurt, aren't about happiness, but healing."
Other people also called the Duchess of Sussex brave.
"Difficult to understate the power of Meghan and Harry speaking so openly about mental healthcare and their personal experiences," Pennsylvania House of Representatives member Malcolm Kenyatta said.
"Asking for help is so brave - and bravery begets bravery."
But ITV's royal editor Chris Ship said it's only one side of the story.
"Ok people. This is serious stuff. Mental health. Race issues. Loneliness. Lack of support. Thoughts of suicide. Discussion about the colour of Archie's skin. Harry's family prepared to lie," Ship wrote on Twitter.
"This is Meghan's side of the story, we have not heard from the other side."
Other people called Markle "manipulative" and a liar.
"Well this has been confirmed to me that this woman is a liar. I cannot imagine the Royal Family saying anything that is so derisive," one person commented.
"Every Oprah is struggling to understand her. Looks like there's more to the story than what Meghan is letting on. I am definitely anti-racism and Meghan seems like she's just milking the bits she wants to clarify."
But many are defending Markle for revealing the dark side of the Royal Family.
Markle's former Suits co-star Patrick Adams has voiced his full support towards her.
"Meghan Markle and I spent the better part of a decade working together on Suits. From day one she was an enthusiastic, kind, cooperative, giving, joyful and supportive member of our television family. She remained that person and colleague as fame, prestige and power accrued," he said.
"It's OBSCENE that the Royal Family, who's newest member is currently GROWING INSIDE OF HER, is promoting and amplifying accusations of 'bullying' against a woman who herself was basically forced to flee the UK in order protect her family and her own mental health."
"Are we to believe that Meghan worked on Suits for seven years without any complaints all of a sudden joined the Royal Family and became this difficult diva bully lady? Oh please. Both Palaces are running scared."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's exclusive interview with Oprah Winfrey will be available to watch in New Zealand for free on Tuesday.
CBS Presents Oprah with Meghan and Harry will air in Aotearoa exclusively on Three and online on ThreeNow at 7:30pm March 9.
Where to find help and support:
Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
