Meghan Markle’s latest Netflix project, a much-discussed cooking show that has drawn both curiosity and criticism, has reportedly been delayed.
The official explanation given cites concerns about ongoing wildfires, but this reasoning has been met with skepticism. Greg Gutfeld, known for his biting commentary, didn’t miss the opportunity to poke fun at the announcement. “Meghan Markle is postponing her Netflix show due to wildfires, which has the public demanding more wildfires,” he joked, capturing the sentiment of many. His sarcasm, while harsh, reflects a broader question—are wildfires really to blame for the postponement? Evidence suggests otherwise. The show’s trailer, which amassed over 166,000 dislikes, hints at an underwhelming public response.
Such a lukewarm reception often signals a need to rework the concept, but it’s far easier to frame the delay as an act of humanitarian awareness than to admit the need for creative revision.
Markle’s public persona has long been a source of debate, especially when it comes to her charitable efforts. Her involvement in disaster relief has been criticized as more performative than heartfelt. A prime example came when she was photographed lifting plastic bins during wildfire recovery efforts, a gesture some saw as more for show than substance. Candace Owens mocked the scene with a sharp remark on TikTok: “If there are any other plastic bins in need of rescuing, Meghan’s your girl.”
The comment, dripping with sarcasm, underscores the perception that Markle’s actions are often staged for maximum publicity rather than rooted in genuine concern. This criticism intensified during a recent visit to Pasadena, where both Meghan and Prince Harry faced accusations of turning a relief mission into a media event. Observers claimed the couple ensured cameras were present to capture their work, further fueling the narrative that their charitable deeds are carefully choreographed rather than sincere.
Meghan Kelly did not hold back in her own critique of the couple’s approach to public service. Pointing out the disconnect between their lavish $29 million mansion and their public displays of concern, she delivered a scathing rebuke. “When you’re royal, maybe people expect you to step up during a crisis. But you’re in America now, and we don’t care about you. You’re not our prince, and you’ll never be king. We hate your wife—stay home.” Her brutally direct words reflect a growing sentiment of public fatigue with the couple’s media presence and Markle’s attempts to craft a relatable, altruistic image.
For many, Markle’s ventures—whether on screen or in charitable efforts—feel more like meticulously staged performances than sincere attempts to connect with real-world issues. Her critics argue that the gap between her carefully polished persona and authentic public engagement is widening. Comparisons to reality television personalities, such as the stars of Keeping Up with the Kardashians, are becoming increasingly common, with some suggesting that even reality TV offers more authenticity. As Meghan Markle’s Netflix project remains delayed, whether it will eventually capture the audience’s interest or fade into obscurity depends on whether she can overcome public skepticism and demonstrate genuine substance behind the carefully curated image.