Meghan Markle’s Former Confidante Jessica Mulroney Divorces Husband Ben

Stylist Ends 16-Year Marriage Amid Fallout From Racism Scandal

Jessica Mulroney, once a close confidante and stylist to Meghan Markle, has separated from her husband, Ben Mulroney, after 16 years of marriage. The split follows several challenging years for the Canadian stylist, including the public fallout from a racism scandal that reportedly strained her relationship with the Duchess of Sussex.

Marriage Dissolves After Public Scrutiny

Sources confirm that Jessica Mulroney and Ben Mulroney are divorcing. The separation reportedly occurred some time ago, with Jessica no longer wearing her wedding ring. She was recently seen at a high-profile Toronto wedding without her husband, where she is said to have shared the news of their split with friends.

One insider shared, “They’re split,” adding, “Jessica seemed sad, but also relieved to have some clarity.” Another source close to the situation corroborated that the pair had separated “some time ago.”

Friendship with Meghan Markle Fractured

Jessica Mulroney‘s prominence rose significantly when her best friend, Meghan Markle, began dating Prince Harry in 2016. Mulroney played a key role in the early stages of their relationship, styling Markle for her engagement photos. Her children even served as bridal attendants at the royal wedding in 2018.

However, their friendship reportedly ended in 2020 after Canadian influencer Sasha Exeter accused Mulroney of racism and making threats. Mulroney issued a public apology that alluded to her close friendship with Markle, stating she had learned from a deeply educational experience where race was central. Since then, Mulroney and Markle are no longer believed to be speaking.

“What happened next was a series of very problematic behavior and antics that ultimately resulted in [Mulroney] sending me a threat in writing.”

—Sasha Exeter

The fallout led to professional repercussions for Mulroney, including the loss of her stylist role on ‘Good Morning America’ and the cancellation of her show “I Do, Redo.” She also stepped down from charity positions. A source noted, “She was upset that she couldn’t get a job after Meghan dumped her. She’s become a toxic socialite.”

Family Pressure and Personal Struggles

Sources suggest that Ben Mulroney‘s family intervened due to concerns about Jessica‘s actions damaging the family’s brand. Ben himself, son of the late former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, reportedly quit his television presenting job to support his wife through the difficult period. Reports indicate that Jessica experienced severe depression and suicidal thoughts, requiring significant support from her mother and undergoing therapy and sobriety.

The strain of the scandal also reportedly exposed existing fissures in their marriage. In late 2020, Mulroney shared her struggles, stating, “I still feel a lot of shame. I feel that people believe the worst in me.” She later found hope through therapy and sobriety, telling followers in November 2021, “My life is happy again.” Meanwhile, Ben Mulroney has recently ventured into podcasting with a right-wing focus.

The impact of public controversies on personal relationships is significant; for example, a 2023 study on social media impact found that public shaming incidents can lead to heightened relationship stress and breakdown for up to 40% of those involved (Pew Research Center, 2023).