Why Meghan Markle Had Been Following Salma Hayek

Meghan Markle — the Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry’s wife — is an outspoken feminist and has made her mark in empowering women all over the world. As an actress, Meghan has played strong female roles, most notably the part of Rachel Zane on the legal drama series “Suits.” Recently, the actress turned royalty shone the spotlight on actress Salma Hayek, revealing how much she admires and loves the Latina actress.

The duchess had made headlines in the past month for being given a role to be featured in September’s edition of the popular fashion and lifestyle magazine Vogue. What surprised everyone, however, was that instead of appearing on the magazine’s front cover, like Kate Middleton did in 2016, Meghan was taken in as a guest editor. Meghan admitted that she had been the one to convince British Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Edward Enninful, of her idea.

“So I asked the question,” Meghan recounted. “Actually, I typed and deleted the question several times until I built up the courage to ask the question in question. ‘Edward … instead of doing the cover, would you be open to me guest editing your September issue?’”

When Enninful accepted her proposal, they started to work on a feminism-centric issue, which they titled “Forces For Change.” The September issue features 15 women “from all walks of life, each driving impact and raising the bar for equality, kindness, justice and open mindedness,” as the sussexroyal stated on its teaser on Instagram.

One of the featured women is Salma Hayek. The Latin actress recalls getting the phone call from the editor-in-chief, very unbelieving of what was transpiring. “I’m [doing a cover], I’m not going to be the cover, I’m putting my favorite women on the cover,” Hayek recalls Meghan telling her. “And you’re definitely one of them. You’re one of the first ones,” Meghan continued.

Meghan has reportedly been watching Hayek and her involvement in causes that raise awareness for violence against women. The “Desperado” actress notably worked with Revlon to add a number in their products that women could call when they’re in danger.

“I think we had a connection before we even talked to each other,” Hayek said. “The shock is that this person had been watching me and I had no idea. It’s really beautiful and I really do think that we have a special connection.”