Last updated on: November 27, 2025
Samantha Grant, also known as Samantha Markle, is the older half-sister of Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex. She became well-known after Meghan’s relationship with Prince Harry gained worldwide attention. Many people wonder about her life and why she appears in the news so often. Here is everything you need to know about her background, family, and public image.
Quick Facts About Samantha Grant
| Full Name | Yvonne Marie Markle (professionally known as Samantha Grant / Samantha Markle) |
| Birthdate | November 24, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years old |
| Occupation | Former model and actress; later worked in counseling and advocacy |
| Husband / Partner | Scott Rasmussen |
| Education | Studied mental health and vocational rehabilitation counseling |
| Parents | Thomas Markle Sr. (Father), Roslyn (Mother) |
| Siblings | Thomas Markle Jr. (full brother), Meghan Markle (paternal half-sister), Bobby Lucero |
| Children | Ashleigh Hale, Noelle Rasmussen, Christopher Hale |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Samantha Grant was born on November 24, 1964, in Los Angeles, California. Her birth name was Yvonne Marie Markle. She later changed her first name to Samantha and also used the last name Grant for a time.
Her parents are Thomas Markle Sr. and his first wife Roslyn. Meghan Markle is the daughter of Thomas and his second wife, Doria Ragland. This makes Samantha and Meghan half-sisters. They share the same father but have a 17-year age gap.
Samantha has one full sibling, Thomas Markle Jr., who is also Meghan’s paternal half-brother. The Markle family has grown more famous because of Meghan’s marriage into the British royal family, bringing attention to their relationships.
Education, Health, and Career
Samantha lived a busy life before she was known to the public. She worked as a model and actress in her early years. She later studied counseling and even trained in areas such as mental health and rehabilitation.
In 2008, her life changed when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). This condition affects muscle control and balance. Because of her diagnosis, Samantha now uses a wheelchair. She continues to speak about disability issues and has raised money to make her home more accessible.
Samantha currently lives in Florida with her partner and children. She focuses on her health, her family life, and advocacy work.
Relationship With Meghan Markle
Although Samantha and Meghan did have contact during Meghan’s childhood, they did not grow up together. They lived in different homes and led different lives. Samantha says she helped raise Meghan for a few years. However, Meghan has said they were not close.
Their relationship became strained long before Meghan became famous. Reports say they have not seen each other since around 2008.
As Meghan gained attention through her acting career and later her marriage to Prince Harry, Samantha became more vocal. She began speaking in interviews and on social media. She often criticized Meghan, especially about Meghan’s relationship with their father, Thomas Markle Sr.
Public Attention and Controversy
Samantha has been in the center of many media stories. Some of her statements have caused strong reactions. She has blamed Meghan for family arguments and has accused her of not supporting their father. Samantha also said she was behind the idea of the paparazzi photos of their father before the royal wedding, which turned into a major controversy.
She has announced plans for a book, called A Tale of Two Sisters, which she says will tell the real story of their family. Many people are curious about it, but the publication has faced delays.
Because of her interviews and public comments, Samantha is often shown as a strong critic of Meghan. This has made their family issues even more public and more complicated.
READ ALSO: Meghan Markle Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
A Complex and Emotional Story
Samantha Grant remains a major part of the Markle family story. Her life shows how families can become divided, especially when fame enters the picture. She has faced health struggles, personal challenges, and a tense relationship with Meghan.
While many people focus on the drama, it is clear that the situation is emotional for everyone involved. Their sisterhood may be distant, but their names will always be linked by family and history.
