As the countdown begins for the launch of her new culinary series, Meghan Markle is under fire for what some have labeled as “ruthless control freakery.”
With only nine days left until With Love, Meghan is set to debut on January 15, the Duchess of Sussex expressed her enthusiasm on social media last week.
Meghan shared the show’s trailer on Instagram, brimming with excitement.
“I have been so thrilled to share this with you!” she wrote.
“I hope you love the show as much as I loved making it. Wishing you a fantastic new year!
“Thanks to our incredible crew and the team at Netflix. I’m beyond grateful for the support — and the fun!”
However, her eagerness to present her new project has drawn scrutiny from British philosopher Kathleen Stock.
In her latest column for The Times, Stock ponders whether anyone has ever been so overtly controlling about their image while attempting to portray themselves as natural and genuine.
She highlights the contrast between Meghan’s polished persona and her claims of authenticity.
The writer’s critique extends to various aspects of the trailer, including the “folksy food content” that characterizes the show and the fact that Meghan didn’t even film in her own kitchen.
Stock also quipped about Prince Harry‘s appearance at the end of the trailer, suggesting it resembled a “well-practiced spontaneous-looking cuddle.”
Additionally, Stock commented on Meghan’s first post since her return to Instagram, which featured her running along the beach and drawing “2025” in the sand.
She sarcastically noted that the video seemed meticulously orchestrated, quipping that “Prussian military manoeuvres have looked less planned.”
Meanwhile, brand expert Eric Schiffer weighed in on Meghan’s new project, branding the trailer as “painfully forced.” He criticized the overall premise, claiming it feels disingenuous.
Schiffer stated, “I think it’s proof that not all royals are entertaining.” He expressed skepticism about whether audiences would connect with the show, remarking, “Is this Netflix or the Montecito Home Shopping Network?”
The show, described in a promotional synopsis as a blend of practical cooking tips and candid conversations with various guests, is set to feature actresses like Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer, along with renowned chefs Roy Choi and Alice Waters.
Despite this star-studded lineup, Schiffer suggests the show might struggle to resonate with viewers.
He further elaborated that showcasing cooking techniques from a privileged perspective, particularly someone with a personal chef, misses the mark.
In his view, the show represents “the least relatable lifestyle show ever.”
As excitement builds for the premiere, the criticisms of Meghan’s latest endeavor raise questions about authenticity and appeal.
Will With Love, Meghan capture the hearts of viewers, or will it lose its way amid these accusations of artificiality?
Only time will tell, but the scrutiny surrounding its launch certainly casts a shadow on what was meant to be a celebratory debut for the Duchess.
On the eve of the show’s release, conversations surrounding Meghan Markle continue to swirl.
What are your thoughts on this upcoming series?
Do you think she can pull it off?
