The Controversial Reception of Meghan Markle in Britain
The treatment of Meghan Markle by the British media and public has sparked widespread outrage. How could one expect her to conform to a life steeped in duty, hierarchy, and classism when she was so evidently destined for a life filled with vibrant experiences? Picture her sipping refreshing citrus drinks, enjoying exquisite cocktails from beautiful mason jars, and adorning her dishes with edible flowers from her own garden. This idyllic lifestyle is what she aims to convey in her Netflix series With Love, Meghan, an eight-episode exploration that feels somewhat outdated in its portrayal of pristine aspiration. One might assume this series is a desperate attempt by Markle to erase the tumultuous last decade of her life.
It is all too easy to scoff at Meghan Markle, and unfortunately, such reactions are both necessary and involuntary while watching With Love, Meghan. This series is framed around “the pursuit of joy,” yet it predominantly features Markle—now addressing herself as Sussex, as she points out early on—draped in immaculate white linen, hosting gatherings at a rented residence in Montecito, which is adorned with tall wooden shelves filled with empty glass jars. She uses pristine white Le Creuset cookware and high-end Japanese knives to prepare simple tomato pasta.
- She crafts candles.
- She prepares parfaits.
- She whips up frittatas.
- She assembles harvest baskets.
- She creates balloon arches.
- She arranges flowers.
- She engages in calligraphy.
Markle insists that all of these activities are rooted in mindfulness, yet while they appear sunlit and sumptuous, they also come across as somewhat mindless. However, amidst the demonstrations of making a daisy chain or lavender-infused towels, I found myself absorbing a wealth of knowledge. I learned how to appreciate honey, the fine distinctions between preserves and jams (a point made twice), and the art of assembling the perfect children’s party bag (complete with miniature gardening tools and a manuka honey stick, which Markle always has on hand). I discovered that creating a rainbow fruit platter can facilitate more present parenting, a revelation likely to irk parents everywhere. A tiered tray can “create a world,” she asserts—be it a strawberry world, a kimchi watermelon world, or a botanical world on a crostini, which she claims is an ideal canvas for an artistic display or a “caprese ladybug.” In one instance, she even uses a “naked” sponge cake as a metaphor for inner beauty.
While Markle’s unwavering commitment to crafting moments of “surprise and delight” for her loved ones is somewhat endearing, it simultaneously instills a sense of guilt in viewers who might not have the resources or time to embrace such a lifestyle. One can’t help but feel lesser when confronted with her devotion to creating personalized bath salts for a “beautiful soak” or when she casually mentions, “since we have the oven on, we may as well slow roast some tomatoes on the vine.” It’s hard not to question whether one’s children will ever connect the aroma of fresh berries with the comfort of coming home from school.
With Love, Meghan is the manifestation of Markle’s long-held aspirations as a lifestyle blogger. Its high-production whimsy, complete with Motown-inspired soundtracks and floral aesthetics, pays homage to culinary icons such as Nigella Lawson and the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten. The latter enjoys spending time at East Hampton farmer’s markets and organizing dinner parties for her friends, often quipping, “store-bought is fine,” a phrase Markle echoes three times regarding heirloom tomatoes, hand-torn arugula, and pre-packaged shortbread mix.
However, where Markle diverges from these culinary legends is in her lack of playful camp and knowing vulnerability. Although she may giggle and assert that “perfection is not the goal,” she cultivates an atmosphere of absolute control. Viewers can almost sense her dismay at an errant blueberry or the tension that arises when a friend accidentally spills beeswax during a candle-making session.
The most engaging segments occur when she invites chefs like Roy Choi to share their culinary wisdom. Here, Markle relinquishes her control and embraces relaxation as they discuss the cultural significance of various cuisines that have shaped Los Angeles, the city she hails from, as well as her own upbringing.
Markle undeniably has a knack for forming connections and showcasing her hosting skills. Had the focus of the series been on these aspects, it could have easily transformed into a compelling culinary show. Unfortunately, the overwhelming emphasis on aspirational living often feels antiquated, highlighted by scenes of Markle indulging in avocado toast. While she avoids buzzwords like “wellness,” “gratitude,” and “clean,” she also neglects modern terms such as “tradwife,” “beige baby,” and “authenticity.”
One thread of authenticity that shines through is Markle’s genuine commitment to this lifestyle. It is clear that she believes life should be filled with those moments of “surprise and delight,” where creating “beautiful worlds” through thoughtful details—like a well-cut ribbon or homemade dog biscuits—contributes to overall happiness. And she is correct in asserting that much of what she does is easier than it appears. However, for the majority of the real world, much like the series itself, it also comes off as a rather extravagant use of time.
With Love, Meghan is currently streaming on Netflix.
