Paula Abdul said she felt humbled after Meghan Markle used Abdul’s 1988 hit “Forever Your Girl” during the American Music Awards [1].
The interaction highlights the continued public visibility of the Duchess of Sussex and her influence on pop culture trends through high-profile events.
The moment occurred during the American Music Awards ceremony in Los Angeles on May 25, 2026 [1]. Markle used the track to celebrate her marriage anniversary with Prince Harry [1]. Abdul, who served as a presenter at the event, said she was humbled by the gesture [1].
Reports indicate that the use of the song had Abdul "pinching herself" in surprise [2]. The 1988 track remains one of Abdul's most recognized works, and its selection for such a personal milestone on a global stage provided a significant moment of nostalgia during the broadcast [1].
Markle's appearance and the subsequent tribute to the song drew attention to the intersection of royal life and the U.S. music industry [1]. The event served as a platform for the Duchess to share a personal milestone with a wide audience while honoring a classic pop hit [3].
Abdul's response emphasizes the impact that a simple song choice can have on an artist's legacy. The singer said she was honored to have her music associated with the anniversary of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex [4].
“Paula Abdul said she was humbled after Meghan Markle used Abdul’s 1988 hit “Forever Your Girl””
This interaction underscores the 'soft power' and cultural branding the Duchess of Sussex maintains in the US. By integrating a classic 1980s hit into a modern awards ceremony, Markle bridges the gap between royal tradition and American pop nostalgia, while simultaneously reinforcing her presence within the Los Angeles entertainment circuit.
