Why The Block’s Sharon Johal can relate to Meghan Markle

As the first Indian Punjabi in a mainstream Aussie TV role with Neighbours, Block star Sharon Johal says she relates to Royal Meghan Markle.

Actor Sharon Johal relates to Meghan Markle.

Not a popular response, but like Markle, Johal has never shied away from speaking her “truth”.

Both have endured relentless criticism and trolling on everything from the colour of their skin and racist stereotypes to daring to speak out.

Johal, who recently finished a memorable stint on The Block, is credited with breaking barriers as the first Indian Punjabi in a mainstream Australian television role during her time on Neighbours.

She later copped abuse and lost work for speaking out against the soap for allowing racist slurs and condoning stereotypes.

Meghan Markle

Sharon Johal. Picture: Alex Coppel

Like Markle, who says in the explosive Netflix doco series Harry & Meghan she felt not “white enough” or “black enough” in the showbiz industry, Johal said she has also lost roles for not looking “Indian” enough.

“I don’t agree with everything Meghan has said or done, but I also don’t think anyone would wish to go through such turmoil voluntarily or bring it upon themselves,” Johal told Page 13 at the Twilight Beach Polo launch at St Kilda’s West Beach Pavilion before it kicks off in February.

“For me, personally unfortunately and on a smaller scale, I have had similar experiences in workplaces and the industry too.

“I just want to work in my home country, Australia, free from discrimination and afforded equal opportunities in the field I’ve chosen.

“We all need to do the work until there is no longer a conversation, we are all exhausted from it.”