Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is a member of the British royal family. Prior to her marriage, she was an American actress in television and film. Markle was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, attending private schools in the Hollywood area. During her studies at Northwestern University in Illinois, from which she graduated in 2003 with a degree in theatre and international studies, she began playing small roles in American television series and films. In 2011, she debuted in her best-known role, Rachel Zane, on the American legal drama series Suits. In 2017, Markle announced her engagement to Prince Harry, grandson of Queen Elizabeth II, and retired from acting. She became "Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Sussex" on their marriage on May 19, 2018.