Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, has already sparked debates among fans and critics alike. Even before its official release, the show has drawn attention, with some questioning its authenticity. Critics argue that it appears overly curated and geared toward a more affluent audience, likening it to a Pinterest board rather than an accessible lifestyle guide.
The series features Meghan, 43, engaging in cooking, crafting, and lifestyle activities from her Montecito home. She shares personal recipes, DIY projects, and conversations with celebrity guests such as actress Mindy Kaling and chef Roy Choi.
The show, set to premiere on Netflix this Tuesday, blends practical how-to segments with candid discussions, emphasizing playfulness over perfection.
However, some viewers have noticed similarities between Meghan’s content and that of other lifestyle influencers.
Her “Fruit Rainbow” recipe has drawn comparisons to food blogger Meg Quinn’s work, while others see parallels between With Love, Meghan and Pamela Anderson’s Pamela’s Cooking With Love. Both shows follow a similar format—exploring gardens, gathering fresh ingredients, and cooking with chefs—fueling debates over originality. Even their phrasing appears similar, with Meghan stating, “I’ve always liked to take something common and elevate it,” echoing Pamela’s remark, “I’ve always wanted to take things to another level.”
Meanwhile, critics argue that Meghan is attempting to market herself as a homemaker in the vein of Martha Stewart.
On GB News, broadcaster Carole Malone dismissed the comparison, insisting Meghan lacks Stewart’s lifelong passion for cooking and homemaking. She also suggested that the show is more of a business move, contrasting it with Kate Middleton’s decision to share a jam recipe for free.
Former Conservative MP Sir Jake Berry also weighed in, criticizing the show’s depiction of motherhood as unrealistic. He pointed out a scene in which Meghan claims to be a “normal mum” while serving an artfully arranged fruit platter. “That’s not my experience of parenting,” he remarked, arguing that the show presents an unattainable ideal rather than real-life parenting.
Despite the criticism, Vogue reports that many fans appreciate the series for its uplifting tone and Meghan’s warm personality. They praise its focus on joy and creativity, seeing it as a refreshing take on the lifestyle genre.
According to The Guardian, the success of With Love, Meghan could be crucial for the Sussexes’ ongoing partnership with Netflix. Their multi-million-dollar deal has yielded mixed results, with previous projects receiving tepid responses. Insiders suggest that a positive reception for the series might encourage Meghan and Harry to move away from projects tied to royal controversies. Former royal butler Grant Harrold even speculated that the royal family would support Meghan’s new direction, as it distances her from past criticisms of exploiting royal ties.
Ultimately, With Love, Meghan comes at a defining moment for the Duchess and Netflix, with its reception potentially shaping future collaborations and content.
