Did you know that a former socialite, once at the center of the royal circle, just ended a 16-year marriage under the shadow of scandal? Jessica Mulroney, Meghan Markle's ex-best friend, has officially split from her husband Ben, and the backstory is as dramatic as any soap opera you can imagine.

Mulroney and her husband are parting ways after experiencing a tumultuous few years that saw their lives unravel in the public eye. It all began when Mulroney was embroiled in a racism scandal that led to her falling out with Markle, leaving her labeled as 'toxic' in Toronto’s elite social circle. This shocking turn of events has captivated media and fans alike, leading to questions about the impact of public scrutiny on personal relationships.

The couple shares three children, and sources close to the situation have hinted that the split is not exactly a secret anymore. Reports suggest that they had separated “some time ago” and that Mulroney has already started to move on. She was last seen at the lavish wedding of Vinay Virmani and Sara Koonar, turning heads in a striking red gown and notably absent of her wedding ring.

Jessica’s emotional state was palpable; sources indicated she appeared sad but also seemed relieved to have clarity about her situation. It’s clear that this transition is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the fallout from her once-glamorous life. The end of the marriage is a significant chapter in her life, especially considering how closely her identity was tied to her friendship with Meghan Markle, whom she no longer speaks with since their fallout in 2020.

This friendship had catapulted her into the highest echelons of society, especially when Markle started dating Prince Harry. Mulroney was even tasked with styling Markle for her engagement photos, a role that placed her in the spotlight. But as with many fame-fueled friendships, the pressures of public life eventually took their toll.

In 2020, a Canadian influencer accused Mulroney of racism, claiming that Mulroney had taken offense to a call to action supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. As a result, she faced severe backlash that not only affected her public image but also her career, leading to her losing her role on 'Good Morning America' and having her own show canceled. The fallout was profound, with reports indicating that Mulroney suffered from severe anxiety and depression, particularly after her friendship with Markle ended.

As she navigates the challenges of single motherhood and a tarnished reputation, Mulroney has been open about her struggles with mental health. She has publicly shared that she’s found a path to healing through sobriety and therapy, proclaiming “there is hope” at the end of the tunnel. Meanwhile, her husband, Ben, has shifted his focus towards becoming a podcaster with a right-wing perspective, while friends note that their marriage had been strained even before the public scandals.

In a world where the stakes are high, divorce, especially among those once considered royalty of social circles, raises questions about the lasting effects of public scandal on personal lives. For Jessica, this new chapter is both an ending and a hopeful beginning.