Meghan Markle’s new lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, presents a curated blend of flower arranging, cooking, and beekeeping, but the polished facade masks an undeniable disconnect.
As the world grapples with economic crises, climate change, and political unrest, Markle’s choice to spotlight artisanal beekeeping and bouquet-making feels tone-deaf rather than relatable. The series, meant to inspire mindfulness and domestic charm, instead highlights how far removed Markle’s life is from the average viewer’s reality. Unsurprisingly, critics like Meghan McCain have branded the show a “tone-deaf yikes,” a critique that’s difficult to dismiss.
In the trailer, Markle proclaims her passion for “elevating the ordinary.” It’s a noble sentiment until you realize her definition of “ordinary” includes curated floral arrangements and a “perfectly imperfect” dinner table. Such portrayals of thoughtful living might resonate in another context, but against a backdrop of global crises, they feel obliviously superficial. Millions are struggling to afford basic necessities, making Markle’s decorative endeavors seem frivolous. This disconnect between her opulent lifestyle and the real-world hardships of her audience makes it hard to take the show’s premise seriously.
McCain’s critique goes deeper, highlighting a missed opportunity. Why not use the platform to explore pressing social issues? Imagine a show where Markle sheds light on food insecurity or environmental challenges rather than offering tips on table settings. The difference between showcasing “elevated” everyday activities and tackling meaningful subjects is profound. Critics like Jan Moir of The Daily Mail have been similarly harsh, describing the series as a “tampon advert meets global mission statement,” a biting summation of its conflicting tones.
One of the series’ most memorable visuals shows Markle, clad in a chic beekeeper suit, tending gently to her hive. It’s picturesque until you consider how inaccessible such hobbies are for most people. This isn’t an empowering demonstration; it’s narrative curation. By portraying an idealized domestic life, Markle raises a troubling question: does she believe in the empowerment she claims to promote? True empowerment requires more than aesthetic appeal. Without action, it’s merely another buzzword. Her famous 2021 interview with Oprah was a defining moment in which she positioned herself as an advocate for change. Yet, With Love, Meghan offers little substance beyond surface-level charm. Empowerment is difficult to achieve when viewers are struggling to make ends meet, and the show’s honey-drizzling moments do little to bridge that gap.
There are valuable lessons Markle could take from her detractors. Authenticity resonates far more than perfectly curated imagery. Instead of presenting a flawless domestic goddess persona, she could explore the real challenges she has faced — from motherhood and mental health to public scrutiny. This kind of vulnerability would create a deeper connection with her audience. Additionally, Markle’s global reach gives her the power to highlight grassroots initiatives and underrepresented voices. A show that sheds light on real-world resilience would inspire far more engagement than personal lifestyle tips. Finally, tone matters. A lighter, more self-aware approach would make her content feel less like an ego-driven project and more like a genuine conversation.
Even with its flaws, With Love, Meghan holds a strange fascination. The carefully framed shots, earnest monologues, and attempts at relatability make it feel like a cultural curiosity — captivating, but for all the wrong reasons. The polished perfection contrasts sharply with a world where audiences crave raw, unscripted moments.
When Markle left the royal family, she seemed poised to redefine her public image as a figure of purpose and authenticity. Unfortunately, her latest endeavor leans more into branding than impact, missing the mark on meaningful engagement. Yet the journey is far from over. By pivoting her narrative and embracing humility, she could still reshape her influence. Addressing her privilege openly, collaborating with changemakers, and focusing on real stories would bring depth and credibility to her work.
Celebrity influence comes with significant responsibility. Public figures now face growing expectations to reflect authenticity and substance rather than polished personas. Markle’s series, while beautifully produced, fails to meet this moment. Critics are not merely calling out aesthetic choices; they’re pointing to a broader cultural shift where superficiality no longer suffices. Markle has the potential to bridge the gap between celebrity culture and real-world impact — but only if she’s willing to listen.
