Meghan Markle makes a surprise television appearance

Meghan Markle made a surprise TV appearance. Photo / CNN

Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance on CNN's annual Heroes TV special on Sunday, honouring inspiring people who have helped out this year during the pandemic.

Markle thanked "individuals (who) stood up and made sure the most basic needs of our communities were met" this year, which she says has been "universally challenging for everyone".

"They made sure those around them did not have to suffer in isolation," she said on the programme.

"In the face of this devastating reality, we ... saw the power of the human spirit and the remarkable ways that communities respond in challenging times.

"We saw the good in people, in our neighbours and in entire communities coming together to say they would not stand by while our neighbours went hungry," she said.

Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex honors the people working to feed those in need during the pandemic on CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute. Get Involved: https://t.co/MkgzSomt7H pic.twitter.com/jnPzPtmBGx

— CNN Heroes (@CNNHeroes) December 14, 2020

In March, when the Covid-19 pandemic really kicked off, Markle and her husband Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, moved to California and relinquished their status as "senior royals".

Despite the big move, the couple continued to volunteer with a bunch of charities in Los Angeles.

In April they helped deliver meals to LA residents through Project Angel Food, helping to feed the chronically ill.

Meghan Markle made a surprise TV appearance. Photo / CNN

The couple also distributed supplies to students in need with Baby2Baby, and Prince Harry was spotted volunteering with Walker Family Events Foundation supporting veterans and their families.

The Duchess continued to list all of the amazing things she has witnessed this year.

"These moments reminded so many that they are cared for."

Ending her message, Markle said that these individuals "showed us, all of us, that even in the darkest times, when we come together, we have the power to remind someone else that there is hope, and that we will be okay."

Over the past 14 years, CNN Heroes has honoured regular people who helped make the world a better place.

Co-hosted by Anderson Cooper from CNN, and ABC's Kelly Ripa, the annual CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute is usually broadcast in front of a live audience.

This year, due to the pandemic, it was pre-taped.