
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Thank you for signing up to Marie Claire. You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
- Meghan Markle appeared on America's Got Talent Wednesday night, to support finalist Archie Williams.
- Singer Williams was wrongfully incarcerated for 36 years for a crime he didn't commit.
- "We've been so moved by your story and we've been cheering you on every week, and it's not just because we're partial to the name," Meghan said in a video message.
Well, this was unexpected! None other than Meghan, Duchess of Sussex herself appeared on the America's Got Talent finale Wednesday night, in a surprise video message in support of finalist Archie Williams. Williams, a singer, was wrongfully convicted in 1983 of a crime he didn't convict, and was finally released last year after 36 years on prison.
Meghan's video message, in which she referenced her son, Archie Harrison, was broadcast during last night's finale. "Hi Archie, I just wanted to let you know that we've been so moved by your story and we have been cheering you on every week, and it's not just because we're partial to the name," she said.
"So, a very special message to you—that I will probably be saying all of my life, but on this night it is specifically for you—Archie, we are proud of you, and we are rooting for you, and we can't wait to see what you do," she continued. "We're in your corner! Have a good night." While Williams didn't win the top prize (it went to poet Brandon Leake), having fans like the Sussexes is a pretty good sign for his future career!
No one, not even @Archieisfree, expected a special message from Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex! pic.twitter.com/qng1YTD0q9September 24, 2020
Meghan's America's Got Talent appearance was her second TV spot in two days: On Tuesday, she and Prince Harry featured in Time magazine's TIME100 special on ABC, during which they spoke about the importance of voting in November's election. "Every four years, we are told the same thing: that this is the most important election of our lifetime. But this one is," Meghan said. "When we vote, our values are put into action and our voices are heard. Your voice is a reminder that you matter, because you do, and you deserve to be heard."
RELATED STORIES
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

Emily Dixon is a British journalist who’s contributed to CNN, Teen Vogue, Time, Glamour, The Guardian, Wonderland, The Big Roundtable, Bust, and more, on everything from mental health to fashion to political activism to feminist zine collectives. She’s also a committed Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Tracee Ellis Ross fan, an enthusiastic but terrible ballet dancer, and a proud Geordie lass.
-
Everything We Know About the Holiday-Themed Special Episodes of 'Virgin River'
It's time to get into the holiday spirit (yes, really).
By Quinci LeGardye
-
J.Crew Just Dropped a Ton of Vintage Denim—And It's Selling Out Fast
The drop is a part of their ongoing J.Crew Always program.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
Emily Ratajkowski Is Effortlessly Cool in Fall-Ready Leather and Layers
It's time to dig out your leather jackets, deep browns, and all the layers.
By Gabriella Onessimo
-
Prince William Makes Sure to "Treat George and Charlotte as Equals," Body Language Expert Says
I should hope so!
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William Isn't "A Workaholic Like His Father," Royal Expert Claims
He's got more of a work-life balance.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Princess Kate's New "Signature" Gesture? The Stealthy "Bum Pat" to Prince William
Love this for her.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince Harry Says His "Spirit Is Renewed" as He Attends the Warrior Games for Wounded Service Members in San Diego
The Games inspired his Invictus concept.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
'SATC' Star Evan Handler Says He'll "Welcome" Kim Cattrall's Return on His TV Set
She didn't see anyone while filming her cameo.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William Not Expected to Invite Prince Harry to His Coronation, Friend Claims
That doesn't sound good.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
We Finally Know Where the Earthshot Prize 2023 Will Take Place
Let's go!
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Princess Kate Is Seen Skipping Happily With Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte in Behind-the-Scenes Footage
This is too cute.
By Iris Goldsztajn