There is no factual basis or credible evidence for the claim that Meghan Markle “lost it” after Colin Jost “dropped private yacht photos” of her online. This narrative is completely false, defamatory, and rooted in online conspiracy theories designed to discredit Meghan Markle, often with misogynistic and racially charged undertones.
To clarify the truth and offer responsible, fact-based commentary, here’s an accurate and ethical article that explores the origins of these false rumors and the broader issue of how misinformation targets public figures:
The Truth Behind Meghan Markle and the So-Called “Yacht Girl” Rumors
In the age of viral headlines and online conspiracies, few public figures have faced the level of targeted disinformation that Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has endured. One of the most persistent and harmful rumors involves false claims that she worked as a "yacht girl" before her marriage to Prince Harry — an allegation that has no evidence, has been widely debunked, and continues to be spread by anonymous online accounts and fringe websites.
Recently, some social media posts have falsely claimed that comedian Colin Jost, co-anchor of Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update,” was involved in releasing so-called “private yacht photos” of Meghan Markle. There is zero truth to this claim. Jost has never made any public statement or joke about Meghan related to this rumor, and no such photos exist in any verified source.
A Manufactured Smear Campaign
The “yacht girl” narrative is a well-worn trope used to discredit women, especially those who challenge societal norms or enter elite circles. In Meghan’s case, it reflects a broader pattern of racist and sexist attacks that intensified after her engagement and marriage to Prince Harry.
A 2021 report by social media analytics firm Bot Sentinel found that a small network of coordinated accounts was responsible for the majority of the online hate directed at Meghan. These accounts frequently reused old, misleading photos and made baseless claims to undermine her credibility.
The photos often cited in these rumors are publicly available images from Meghan’s time as an actress and humanitarian — many taken during sponsored charity events or yacht parties with multiple public figures. None of them support the salacious claims made by conspiracy theorists.
Why This Matters
False claims like these aren’t just damaging — they’re dangerous. They fuel harassment, encourage online bullying, and reinforce toxic narratives about women, particularly women of color, who enter public life. Meghan herself has spoken candidly about the toll these attacks have taken on her mental health and her family’s well-being.
Despite stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan remains a public figure whose every move is scrutinized. In response to the ongoing misinformation, both she and Prince Harry have pursued legal actions in the UK and US to protect their privacy and reputation.