Speaking to The Sunday Times about such reports, Chopra said: “I’ve seen that, and it’s really unfortunate. But if there’s anyone who can handle it, it’s her.”

Asked if criticism of Meghan is down to her biracial heritage, Chopra replied: “For sure, 100%. Of course it has to do with racism, it’s an obvious reason. But the beauty of Meg is that she’s been herself through all of this. A lot of people got to know her after everything [once she started dating Harry], but I knew her before, and she’s the same chick.”

She then went on to praise the work her friend is doing in the face of negativity, adding: “Now that she’s got a real platform, she talks about the same things she always did. We spent hours speaking about the difference that influence and dialogue can make to the world before this whole thing happened. So what you see now is authentically her. She’s always been the girl wanting to move the needle.”

Priyanka Chopra knows exactly why the press keeps targeting Meghan Markle