Meghan Markle is back in the spotlight, gracing our screens with her latest Netflix series, With Love, Meghan. The trailer has just dropped, and it’s packed with appearances from Hollywood pals, glamorous visuals, and what are touted as “authentic moments.”
Yet, speculation is already swirling about the true originality of the recipes showcased in the series. Many are questioning whether these culinary creations are genuinely hers. You’d think, given her emphasis on authenticity, Meghan would serve up entirely original dishes. However, the internet is buzzing with questions about how many recipes she might be borrowing this time—potentially from celebrity chef Cory Vitiello, her former boyfriend. The timing of Meghan’s newfound passion for “elevated yet simple cuisine” has raised eyebrows, with many calling it suspiciously convenient.
The trailer offers a parade of what could be described as “relatable Meghan moments.” From squeezing lemon juice into her eye to accidentally toppling baked goods in a calculated “oopsie,” the scenes appear designed to charm. Of course, there’s also the signature Harry hug at the end, as the couple sips mimosas in a Pinterest-perfect tableau. Meghan’s Hollywood friends, including Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer, make appearances, sampling her culinary creations. Mindy even calls it “one of the most glamorous moments” of her life. Eating salad with Meghan, it seems, trumps all the red carpet events for Mindy—an assertion that has left many viewers scratching their heads.
Now, about the alleged recipe borrowing. Rumors are swirling that Meghan’s recipes may not be as original as they appear. One notable example is the adorable ladybug Caprese appetizer that first gained attention in 2018. Fans suspect it might make a comeback on With Love, Meghan. For chefs like Cory Vitiello, creating original recipes is a labor-intensive process involving passion, creativity, and sleepless nights. If Meghan is indeed passing off someone else’s work as her own, critics argue it’s not only unoriginal but also borderline fraudulent.
Meghan’s obsession with authenticity is a recurring theme, from her insistence on “country bread” and “authentic butter” to carefully curated narratives about her self-made culinary journey. Yet, this attempt to project a down-to-earth image often backfires, veering into cringeworthy territory. Adding to the mix are the inevitable heartwarming anecdotes about her children, Archie and Lilibet, helping in the kitchen. Viewers can expect meticulously choreographed shots of tiny hands sprinkling flour while Meghan beams proudly, embodying the image of the ideal mom.
Another point of curiosity is whether Meghan’s claim of being 43% Nigerian will be explored through a segment on traditional Nigerian dishes. Will she take the opportunity to teach her children about embracing their heritage through food? Or will this, too, be sidelined in favor of glossy, Instagram-ready content that prioritizes aesthetics over substance?
For chefs like Cory Vitiello, this could be the moment to speak out. If Meghan is using recipes that aren’t her own, viewers deserve to know. After all, a Netflix cooking show—however polished—is a far cry from the artistry and hard work of professional chefs. In the end, With Love, Meghan might prove to be more about branding than culinary brilliance. But one thing is certain: the drama surrounding the show will make for entertaining viewing. After all, what’s more captivating than a duchess striving to be relatable while facing allegations of culinary plagiarism?
