Meghan Markle is moved to tears at emotional charity event honoring friend’s late son

Meghan Markle was moved to tears at an emotional charity event BFF Kelly Zajfen held for her late son.

As seen in a video shared online, the Duchess of Sussex wiped away tears as Zajfen appeared to speak directly to Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, for their support of the tennis tournament. The event was created in honor of Kelly’s son, George Zajfen, who died at age 9 in 2022 after suffering from COVID-19 and viral meningitis.

“You continue to show up for our family, for foster youth and for every child who deserves a chance to thrive,” Kelly said as the Sussexes and other attendees looked on.

Kelly Zajfen and Meghan Markle
Meghan Markle was moved to tears at an emotional charity event BFF Kelly Zajfen held for her late son.Jason Sean Weiss
Kelly Zajfen and Meghan Markle hugging
According to a video shared online, the Duchess of Sussex could be seen wiping away tears during her pal’s speech.

“We are endlessly inspired by how you use your voice,” she added, as Markle began to cry. “It’s the greatest honor that you chose to celebrate the Alliance for Children’s rights … we love you so much.”

The “Suits” alum took to her Instagram Stories to share that she was “proudly” supporting the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament alongside a selfie of her with Kelly and George’s twin sister, Lily Zajfen.

Markle, who shares Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, with Harry, also shared a video of Lily running over to the “Spare” author and excitedly hugging him.

“Our other favorite Lily,” the mom of two wrote atop the clip.

Kelly and George Zajfen
Kelly appeared to speak directly to Markle and Prince Harry, thanking them for their support of the tennis tournament, which was created in honor of Kelly’s son, George Zajfen, who died at age 9 in 2022._heartmom_/Instagram
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at a charity event in 2025
“You continue to show up for our family, for foster youth and for every child who deserves a chance to thrive,” Kelly said as the Sussexes and other attendees looked on.Jason Sean Weiss
A selfie of Meghan Markle and Kelly and Lily Zajfen in 2025
The “Suits” alum took to her Instagram Stories to share that she was “proudly” supporting the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament alongside a selfie of her with Kelly and George’s twin sister, Lily Zajfen._heartmom_/Instagram

Since Kelly and her husband, Julian Zajfen, lost their son, Markle has been supporting her close friend by attending numerous charities and joining her in fundraising efforts.

In April 2024, the As Ever founder and her former “Suits” co-star Abigail Spencer attended Kelly’s Alliance of Moms charity event and modeled graphic T-shirts that give back to young parents who have experienced foster care.

And that October, the longtime friends attended the Children’s Hospital LA Gala together, walking the green carpet in support of CHLA and the “extraordinary care” they have provided to Lily, who suffers from heart issues.

Lily Zajfen hugging Prince Harry
Markle, who shares Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, with Harry, also shared a video of Lily running over to the “Spare” author and excitedly hugging him.meghan/Instagram
Meghan markle speaking at the Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Festival in 2025
Since Kelly and her husband, Julian Zajfen, lost their son, Markle has been supporting her close friend by attending numerous charities and joining her in fundraising efforts.Evan Agostini/Invision/AP
Kelly Zajfen and Meghan Markle at the Children's Hospital Los Angeles Gala in 2024
In October 2024, the longtime friends attended the Children’s Hospital LA Gala together, in support of CHLA and the “extraordinary care” they have provided to Lily, who suffers from heart issues.Getty Images for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Last month, Kelly gave a rare insight into Markle’s “nurturing” nature.

“I’ve actually known her for almost 20 years,” the non-profit co-founder wrote on her Instagram Story during a Q&A at the time.

“She even came to my wedding (15 years ago!), and she’s been the most amazing, nurturing, fun, loving human. She’s been by my side, especially since Georgie died, and I cherish our friendship very much.”

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