Meghan Markle: Libel lawsuit filed by half-sister Samantha Markle against Duchess of Sussex dismissed

The libel lawsuit against Meghan Markle brought by her half-sister has been thrown out, marking a notable win for the duchess. Samantha Markle filed the lawsuit based on remarks Meghan made during her interview with Oprah Winfrey and the content portrayed in the Netflix documentary series featuring the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry & Meghan.

According to the court order dated Tuesday, March 12 as published by Newsweek, the case was dismissed "with prejudice" as Samantha "failed to identify any statements that could support a claim for defamation." Had the case gone to trial, Meghan would have been forced to release private documents and messages relevant to the case. Samantha is appealing against the decision.

Judge Charlene Honeywell said: "The Court grants the motion to dismiss, in full. (Samantha Markle's) claims will be dismissed with prejudice, as she has failed to identify any statements that could support a claim for defamation or defamation-by-implication by this point, her third try at amending her complaint, in either the book Finding Freedom, the Netflix series Harry & Meghan, or (Meghan Markle) and her husband's hour-long televised CBS Interview. As such, the Third Amended Complaint will be dismissed, with prejudice."

In her suit, Samantha also accused Christopher Bouzy, founder of data firm Bot Sentinel, of defaming her by linking her to racist trolls. Speaking to Newsweek following the decision, Mr Sentinel described her claim as "baseless".

He said: "The court has rightly dismissed what was nothing more than a meritless lawsuit, recognizing it for the baseless claim it was. This decision not only vindicates Meghan but also serves as a stern rebuke to those who seek to manipulate the legal system for personal vendettas.

"It's a clear message that our courts are not stages for personal dramas to play out under the guise of legal grievances. I am beyond thrilled for Meghan and her family and wish them continued success in their endeavours."

Peter Ticktin, attorney for Samantha Markle, told Newsweek in a statement: "Frankly, I am surprised at this outcome, as I thought that her Honor was understanding and accepting our position, especially when she inquired as to whether certain allegations were in the Complain.

"Unfortunately, ultimately, our position was completely ignored. The more the statements were taken singularly, the more the meaning of them were lost. They had to be looked at collectively."

He also confirmed that they will be filing a Notice of Appeal.