Kate Middleton happy Jonathan Sacerdoti Meghan Markle looking pissed
Getty/TMZ

Kate Middleton made her long-awaited return to the spotlight Saturday amid her cancer battle … but Meghan Markle tried stealing her thunder — so says one royal expert.

We talked to Jonathan Sacerdoti on “TMZ Live” Monday … where he broke down the Princess of Wales’ appearance at the Trooping the Colour celebration — and what it meant for the Royal Family, and more importantly … why he thinks Meg wanted in on the attention.

ROYALLY PATHETIC

TMZ.com
He says Princess Kate joining her husband, Prince William, and their children on Buckingham Palace’s famed balcony amid her health struggles reminded the public why they love the royals … but slammed MM for trotting out new jams right around the same time.

Trooping the Colour 2024

TROOPING THE COLOUR 2024LAUNCH GALLERY

Getty
The Duchess of Sussex has been called out for launching new products over the weekend as part of her new lifestyle brand. ICYMI … Meghan’s close friend, Nacho Figueras, shared a sneak peek of American Riviera Orchard’s new jam and dog biscuits on Instagram Friday.

Nacho's Post about rasberry dog treats

Remember, Harry and Meghan have been at odds with the royals ever since their famed Megxit in 2020 .. rarely linking up with PH’s family since moving to the States — even amid King Charles and Princess Kate’s respective cancer battles.

Trooping the Colour Parade Through The Years

TROOPING THE COLOUR THROUGH THE YEARSLAUNCH GALLERY

Getty
So, many are interpreting this soft launch for Meghan’s lifestyle goods as a deliberate move to steal the news cycle away from the Princess of Wales … including Jonathan here.

Check it out … he’s pretty fired up, calling the perceived plot as “pathetic.” Of course, he also acknowledges it might just be a coincidence on timing — which is probably the case.

The Royal Family

THE ROYAL FAMILYLAUNCH GALLERY

Getty
Either way … Jon is happy to see Kate back in the public eye, and thinks Brits are too.

HEADING FOR DIVORCE

TMZ Studios
When it comes to Meghan and Harry … he’s accusing them of antics once again — but the jury’s out on whether any of that is intentional. The debate rages on, per usual.