Meghan Markle’s recent night out in New York City has ignited a firestorm of public scrutiny, after her unusually large security convoy went viral online. The Duchess of Sussex reportedly employed an elaborate four-vehicle motorcade — including three black SUVs and an unmarked NYPD car — as she headed to see the Broadway revival of Gypsy last Thursday evening.
Critics have slammed the security arrangement as “completely over-the-top,” especially considering that the former actress wasn’t accompanied by her husband, Prince Harry, or her children. Sources say the security team included former Secret Service agents, with at least two decoy vehicles used to confuse paparazzi. One of the cars was believed to carry the duchess, while the others remained empty.
The convoy began its evening at the upscale Polo Bar for dinner with friends before making its way to the Majestic Theatre. Though Markle reportedly kept a low profile inside the venue, the motorcade and NYPD presence outside drew plenty of attention. An officer in uniform was seen near the duchess, prompting questions about whether taxpayer resources had been used to protect a private citizen.
One insider with knowledge of celebrity security logistics told reporters, “This level of protection is far from standard — even for A-listers.” They pointed out that stars like Taylor Swift typically rely on just one vehicle for themselves and another for security, while even power couples like Beyoncé and Jay-Z rarely bring more than two cars. “The police escort is what makes it so absurd. Most celebrities don’t get that kind of treatment,” the source added.
Another observer emphasized that the use of police lights and official vehicles would only be permitted under certain circumstances — typically requiring a legitimate threat or formal request. While some defended Markle’s security decisions as precautionary, others were left wondering who footed the bill for the NYPD’s involvement.
Markle’s defenders argue that increased security has become necessary due to the level of harassment she and Harry face, especially in New York. Back in May 2023, the couple made headlines for what they described as a “near-catastrophic” chase through Manhattan involving aggressive photographers. Their spokesperson claimed the pursuit lasted over two hours and resulted in several near misses. However, multiple officials and witnesses disputed that account, saying no collisions or 911 calls had been recorded during the incident.
At the time, one eyewitness suggested the couple’s team had actually escalated the situation. “It felt like their security was provoking the paparazzi — like they were playing games,” the source said, comparing the team’s behavior to “security for rappers” rather than trained professionals.
Despite the backlash, Prince Harry has continued to push for public funding of their security during U.S. visits. In a recent interview, he stressed the seriousness of ongoing threats to their safety, citing his mother Princess Diana’s tragic death in a car crash while being chased by paparazzi in 1997. “Our family history should not be dismissed. This isn’t about vanity — it’s about real, tangible risk,” Harry said.
The Duke of Sussex has even taken legal steps in the U.K. to maintain access to police protection when he returns home, arguing that private security cannot match the capabilities of official services.
While Meghan continues to receive mixed reactions to her high-profile appearances, one thing is clear — her latest NYC outing has reignited the debate about royal security, celebrity privilege, and who should be picking up the tab. Whether it’s public fear, personal trauma, or media spectacle, the Sussexes remain firmly in the spotlight.
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