Paula Abdul Thanks Meghan Markle for Using Her Song in Anniversary Tribute

At the 2026 American Music Awards, host Paula Abdul shared her appreciation for Meghan Markle’s choice to include Abdul’s song in an Instagram story commemorating Markle’s eighth anniversary with Prince Harry.

The Instagram post, which included 24 previously unseen photographs, was accompanied by the track "Forever Your Girl," one of Abdul’s well-known hits.

Paula Abdul on Meghan Markle’s song selection for anniversary celebration

During an interview with E! News on May 25, Abdul described her reaction to Markle’s use of her music as both surprising and deeply moving. She emphasized her continual gratitude for moments like these throughout her career.

“I was in shock, and I was so touched,” Abdul stated. “I never take anything for granted with my career, I never have. And so, I’m always humbled to have little gems like that appear in my life. It’s very touching.”

Abdul also revealed she had sent a text message to Markle expressing thanks for the song’s inclusion, writing, “What beautiful pictures and thank you so much for using my song.”

In addition to her private message, Abdul posted publicly, “So sweet to hear ‘Forever Your Girl’ over these beautiful memories. Wishing you both continued love, laughter, and a very Happy Anniversary! XoP.”

The anniversary celebration featured the couple’s children, Archie, aged 7, and Lilibet, aged 4, who witnessed Prince Harry surprising Markle with a lemon and elderflower cake, matching the flavor of their 2018 wedding cake. The Instagram carousel not only revisited wedding memories but also offered fans insight into the family’s life in California.

One image showed a bronze sculpture of two penguins cuddling, a gift from Harry to Markle. This sculpture references an engagement party where attendees wore penguin onesies, symbolizing the animals’ lifelong mating habits.