Meghan Markle Emerges Victorious in Defamation Lawsuit Filed by Half-Sister Samantha Markle

A significant legal triumph unfolds for Meghan Markle as U.S. District Attorney Judge Charlene Honeywell dismisses with prejudice the defamation case instigated by her half-sister, Samantha Markle.

In court documents obtained by PEOPLE on Tuesday, Honeywell states that Samantha’s allegations lack substantiation and merely convey disagreement with Meghan’s opinions rather than factual assertions. Consequently, the motion to dismiss the case is granted, marking a favorable outcome for Meghan.

Meghan’s attorney, Michael J. Kump, expresses contentment with the court’s decision, emphasizing their satisfaction with the case’s dismissal.

Samantha, the half-sister of Meghan through their shared father Thomas Markle, is barred from initiating further legal action, having failed to present compelling evidence to support her $75,000 defamation claim against Meghan.

Samantha’s allegations primarily revolve around Meghan’s interview with Oprah Winfrey, where Meghan discussed her upbringing and relationship with her half-siblings. However, Honeywell’s previous ruling determined that Meghan’s remarks constituted protected opinions rather than falsifiable statements, thereby undermining Samantha’s defamation claims.

Despite Samantha’s attempts to challenge Meghan’s narrative, the court has decisively ruled in Meghan’s favor, bringing closure to this contentious legal dispute.