Meghan Markle's family share photo she 'never wanted the world to see'

A controversial photograph ofMeghan Markle, described by sources as one she "never wanted the world to see," was dug up by her own family ahead of an explosive interview.

The throwback snap, released by her relatives, which showed the Duchess of Sussexat an unspecified occasion, went viral in the lead-up to a bombshell tell-all with 7NEWS Australia two years ago.

In the image, Meghan is shown sporting a plunging white top with a napkin tucked into it. Her hair is pulled back in a relaxed bun with strands framing her face, and an array of plates spread out in front of her indicates she may have been enjoying a meal out at the time.

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The picture was shared on platform X by journalist Taylor Auerbach, who claimed it was an image Meghan "never wanted the world to see". Following the disclosure, Auerbach has since removed his online posts containing the photograph.

During the frank 7NEWS Australia interview, several other rare photographs of the Duchess from her younger days were revealed.

Subjects covered included her relationship with Prince Harry and speculation about where her life might have headed "without her dad". In the interview teaser, her sister Samantha made a blunt statement, saying: "She would still be a waitress if it wasn't for dad."

Samantha also gave her opinion on Meghan's marriage to Harry, brutally claiming: "They're unhealthy for each other. This is a toxic relationship."

The Duchess' relationship with her estranged father and sibling has been notably rocky since her wedding to Prince Harry. So far, Meghan has kept quiet about their accusations.

Earlier this year, Meghan opened up about her marriage to Prince Harry in a television interview with Drew Barrymore. She said: "Life is full of surprises. I did not expect to meet H and for this to be our love story."

She continued on to say that she married the "funniest, sweetest, most charming man", adding: "I mean, he's all the things that you're describing and he's an amazing father. So I count my blessings because I have him. Also I have a partner who is so supportive of me."

Meghan also discussed their commitment to each other and their relationship, explaining: "So we have this connection I think because we're so committed to treating each other the same way you did before you had a ring on it, before it was locked down when you're just courting each other and you can see all the good and joy in that butterfly period and that's I think what keeps things really alive."