Meghan Markle has returned to the public eye, but this time it’s not due to royal engagements or re-airings of Suits.
Instead, she’s ventured into the world of cooking shows—or perhaps we should say, cooking show imitations. Her latest Netflix trailer has sparked controversy, with many accusing her of blatantly borrowing from well-established formats. Among those feeling the sting of imitation is none other than Gwyneth Paltrow, the queen of wellness herself.
Fans were quick to notice the striking similarities between Meghan’s trailer and Gwyneth’s iconic content. Remember that famous Vogue video where Gwyneth strolls through her lush garden, shares personal insights, and artfully arranges flowers in what feels like a spiritual retreat? Meghan’s trailer seems to replicate the formula almost to the letter. While Meghan may have been aiming for a chic, approachable vibe, critics argue she falls short, delivering what many see as a less-polished knockoff. Unsurprisingly, Gwyneth reportedly isn’t thrilled—her reaction might even have been visible from across the Atlantic.
This isn’t Meghan’s first foray into the Gwyneth-inspired lifestyle niche. Last March, she launched her own lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which features high-end products like $75 candles. The marketing campaign for the brand bore a striking resemblance to Gwyneth’s Goop catalog, complete with artistic shots of hands arranging roses and Meghan playfully cooking in a picture-perfect kitchen. Fans quickly called out the similarities, particularly referencing Gwyneth’s video where she roasted a chicken with effortless grace. Even the placement of lemons in Meghan’s backdrop triggered a wave of comparisons online.
Reddit users didn’t hold back, with one commenter pointing out, “She’s totally copying one of Gwyneth’s early Goop videos, the roasted chicken one,” while another quipped, “OMG, lemons and all!” The discussion spiraled into a broader critique of Meghan’s attempts to channel Gwyneth’s wellness empire. For someone who once dismissed the idea of selling overpriced candles during a 2016 influencer conference, Meghan’s pivot feels ironic to many. Fans speculate that Gwyneth might still remember that slight, adding an extra layer of tension to the unfolding drama.
Despite the backlash, Netflix is likely relishing the buzz. The streaming giant has never shied away from drama, and the controversy surrounding Meghan’s alleged imitation could be just the kind of publicity they’re after—negative or not. Meghan has consistently proven adept at commanding attention, even if it’s often accompanied by a fair share of criticism.
For Gwyneth, the situation must feel surreal. After years of building a brand centered on sophistication, wellness, and exclusivity, seeing Meghan attempt to replicate her empire must be frustrating. One can only imagine the legendary eye-roll Gwyneth might have unleashed when the trailer dropped—a reaction destined to be remembered for years to come. While Meghan may aspire to climb the lifestyle brand ladder, it’s clear that Gwyneth remains the undisputed queen of wellness and culinary elegance.
