Meghan Markle received a warm reception at the Sundance Film Festival after being introduced on stage by her royal title, as she addressed audiences in support of a documentary she executive-produced with Prince Harry. As reported by the Express, the Duchess of Sussex appeared at an early screening of Cookie Queens in Park City, Utah, where she was met with loud cheers and applause after being introduced as 'Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex'.
Harry and Meghan, who remain involved in documentary filmmaking through Archewell Productions, attended a second Sundance screening of Cookie Queens after appearing at the film's premiere in Salt Lake City the previous day. The documentary follows four young girls competing to become top sellers in the Girl Scouts cookie programme.
Proud and Privileged to Support Cookie Queens
Speaking to the audience, Meghan acknowledged the early start and thanked attendees for their support before reflecting on the project's significance. 'Thank you so much for being here bright and early. I know some of you probably had late nights last night, so extra thanks for the effort. Nothing that little cookies and coffee can't help,' she said.
She described the film as both charming and meaningful, highlighting its emotional depth and cultural relevance. 'My husband and I, and our Archewell Productions, are so proud and privileged to support and uplift Cookie Queens. This film is probably the cutest at the festival,' the duchess continued. 'But I'm also going to go out on a limb and say it is one of the most powerful and meaningful depictions of an American tradition rooted in nostalgia.'
Meghan credited the documentary's director, Alyssa, with offering a modern perspective on girlhood and ambition. 'It is shown through the incredible creative vision of Alyssa to reflect a modernised girlhood experience and the layers of complexity that come with it,' she added.
Spotlight on Girlhood, Leadership and Ambition
Continuing her remarks, the duchess stressed that the documentary went beyond charm to highlight the personal growth of its young subjects. 'Yes, it's cute, and these young ladies are fantastic and adorable, but they are also layered, beautiful girls who are about to become strong leaders and young women,' she said.
Meghan also praised the families who took part in the production, emphasising the time and trust involved in making the film. 'This film is a labour of love. They have worked on it for a couple of years, capturing hundreds of hours of trusted, fly-on-the-wall footage with families who let them in and allowed them to share their lives and loves,' she explained.
Red Carpet Remarks and Questions About Princess Lilibet
Beyond her stage appearance, Meghan also spoke briefly to media on the red carpet. A reporter from Deadline asked whether Princess Lilibet, four, might one day join the Girl Scouts, given the film's subject matter. Meghan gave a cautious, non-committal response, saying, 'It's interesting. I think we'll continue to explore whatever feels right.'
