Fresh details have emerged about the Duchess of Sussex’s upcoming trip to Australia, where Meghan Markle is set to appear at a private Sydney retreat for an in-conversation interview. The event, scheduled for April, will feature a one-on-one discussion with podcast host and entrepreneur Gemma O’Neill, offering attendees a rare opportunity to hear from the former royal in an intimate setting.
Meghan Markle to Appear at Sydney Wellness Retreat
Meghan Markle will travel to Sydney in April to take part in a special retreat hosted by event company Besties. The three-day gathering will run from April 17 to April 19 at the InterContinental Hotel in Coogee, a coastal suburb in Sydney’s eastern suburbs known for its beaches and resort-style accommodation.
During the retreat, Markle will take part in a sit-down interview with Gemma O’Neill, co-founder of Besties and business partner of Australian radio personality Jackie “O” Henderson.
The appearance is expected to be one of the headline moments of the weekend-long event, which focuses on wellbeing, personal development and community connection.
Gemma O’Neill to Lead the One-on-One Interview
O’Neill confirmed she will be the person interviewing the Duchess, rather than Henderson, clarifying speculation about who would host the conversation.
Speaking to news.com.au, O’Neill said she was still coming to terms with the opportunity.
“I keep having to pinch myself that Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, is coming to sit down with me,” she said.
“I’m just a mum from Sydney with a podcast that started as a passion for those trying to live their best lives. It’s surreal, but I think the whole weekend is going to be pretty special and I’m incredibly excited for our Her Best Life community.”
While she acknowledged she does not come from a traditional journalism background, O’Neill said her approach would focus on authenticity.
Focus on a Personal Conversation
“I recognise I’m not a journalist, but I’m a very curious person by nature,” she said.
“I will be leaning into an authentic woman-to-woman conversation, and I can’t wait.”
The discussion is expected to centre on themes such as personal growth, life transitions and balancing public and private life — topics that frequently appear in Markle’s public speaking and media appearances.
Jackie O’s Involvement Explained
Although Jackie “O” Henderson is closely linked to the Besties brand and remains one of Australia’s most recognisable radio hosts, she will not be conducting the interview with Markle.
O’Neill, who has been a close supporter of Henderson in recent weeks, confirmed she will take the lead for the on-stage conversation.
She admitted she initially hesitated before accepting the role.
“I feel really excited. I went through a period where I almost said no,” she said.
Ultimately, O’Neill decided to embrace the opportunity, describing the event as a unique moment for the Besties community.
A High-Profile Appearance Down Under
Markle’s appearance is likely to draw considerable attention across Australia and internationally, given ongoing global interest in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex following their departure from royal duties and subsequent media projects.
Sydney frequently hosts major speaking tours and lifestyle retreats featuring international guests, and organisers are expecting strong interest in the event.
With a globally recognised figure taking part in a relatively intimate conversation, organisers say the retreat aims to create a space for candid discussion rather than a traditional celebrity interview.
A Weekend Built Around Connection and Conversation
The Sydney retreat will bring together speakers, workshops and community sessions designed around wellbeing and personal development.
Markle’s interview is expected to be one of the weekend’s central attractions, offering attendees insight into her experiences and perspectives in a more personal format.
As anticipation builds ahead of the April event, organisers say the goal remains simple: creating a meaningful conversation that resonates with the community attending the retreat.
Alexander Donovan writes for News Collective, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.