Meghan Markle's pal Lindsay Jill Roth reveals details about the Netflix Holiday Special and the unexpected surprise behind the scenes that went unnoticed by everyone (Exclusive)

Lindsay Jill Roth, a longtime friend of Meghan Markle, offers an exclusive glimpse into the making of Netflixs With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, revealing both the on-screen joy and unexpected off-camera moments that made the day memorable.

When Meghan invited Roth and fellow friend Kelly McKee Zajfen to participate in a wreath-making segment, cameras captured their laughter, creativity, and effortless camaraderie. But according to Roth a New York- and London-based author and producer the true magic happened both in front of and behind the camera.

Walking onto the Montecito set, Roth immediately sensed a familial atmosphere rather than a formal production. The energy was incredible," she recalls. "Meg was already filming, but [makeup artist] Daniel Martin greeted me with a big hug. Then I saw [photographer] Jake Rosenberg, another longtime friend, and Kelly. It instantly felt like a family day warm, fun, and relaxed.

Roth and Meghans friendship spans more than 25 years, beginning in a Toni Morrison literature class at Northwestern University. Despite pursuing different paths Roth in producing and writing, Meghan in Hollywood and royal life their bond has remained steadfast. "Even when we live in different places, we often think the same thoughts at the same time and reach out to each other," Roth explains. "We laugh a lot and support one another. Being completely yourself with someone like that is rare."

Their natural ease extended to the wreath-making activity, despite none of them having prior experience. Roth describes the project as unexpectedly fulfilling. "It could have gone wrong, but our creations turned out beautiful, each reflecting our personal styles," she says.

Watching Meghan host the special felt personal rather than performative. Roth shares, "Shes always been creative in everyday life turning simple ingredients into impressive meals. Seeing her combine that creativity with hosting the show was wonderful."

The friends history includes working together on projects such as Suits, the 2005 film A Lot Like Love, Meghans Larry King interview, and Roths Cooking Channel show The Real Girl's Kitchen. One particularly meaningful moment on set, not shown in the special, was Roth presenting Meghan with an advance copy of her new book, Romances & Practicalities: A Love Story (Maybe Yours!) in 250 Questions. "Sharing that moment felt really special," Roth recalls. "Meghan was touched by the dedication."

The day held an additional surprise: Prince Harry and their son, Prince Archie, visited the set during wreath-making. While Meghans children, Archie (6) and Princess Lilibet (4), do not appear on camera, they played a quiet role behind the scenes. Roth remembers, "I dont see them often now, so having Archie help me with my wreath was such a sweet experience." For Roth, the visit made the day even more memorable. "Getting to hug Harry and cuddle Archie was such a lovely surprise."

Harry makes a brief on-screen appearance during a kitchen scene as Meghan prepares her mother Doria Raglands traditional Christmas Eve gumbo, providing a glimpse of the familys intimate dynamic. Roth adds, "I hope viewers recognize the love in their marriage."

After more than two decades of friendship, spanning cities, careers, and life changes, Roth says their bond remains strong. "Weve shared countless life experiences. Despite unexpected turns in both our lives, weve chosen and supported each other. Watching her achieve her dreams has been incredible."

Author: Jackson Miller