Meghan Markle Reclaims Her Lifestyle and Culinary Passion: A Journey Back to Her Roots

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has stirred up quite the buzz online, as she recently revealed her new program with Netflix, With Love, Meghan, on her updated Instagram profile featuring a preview that showcases her engaging in various Martha Stewart-like activities, such as creating decorative ice cubes, preparing appetizers and main dishes in the kitchen, frolicking in her backyard garden, and spending time with her family and close celebrity acquaintances like Mindy Kaling, along with her husband, Prince Harry, and their charming children. Although the teaser has incited some backlash online, the 8-episode series is slated to debut on January 15th. It has been described as an uplifting and motivating series that “redefines the lifestyle programming genre, merging practical how-tos with candid discussions with friends, both new and old.”

Regrettably, it is no surprise that Markle has already faced significant criticism and backlash online, primarily from British royal supporters and Meghan McCain, who admitted she was once a fan of Markle but stated the trailer for her new program is “utterly out of touch with the current climate.” The current climate refers to the global situation, particularly in the United States, which has recently experienced a series of distressing public tragedies (some being labeled as terrorism-related); the public is also bracing for a new president. She elaborates, “I initially supported Meghan Markle. I thought she was cool, fashionable, and refreshing,” McCain stated in a post on X. “Like everyone else, my perception changed when she began to disrespect the royal family. Now that she seeks to be American again rather than part of the British elite, she seems to overlook that Americans desire authenticity and transparency. Everything presented in the teaser feels excessively curated, produced, and disconnected.”

“There have been two terror incidents in two days, major conflicts erupting, and Americans are struggling to afford groceries,” McCain continued. “We are a nation filled with anger, uncertainty, and intensity right now. This idea is poorly timed. I would suggest she create a show that aids in delivering fresh produce to food deserts in underprivileged communities. Focus on helping others instead of feeding your own ego. This is why the public has reservations about you; it’s not about anything else. It’s just completely and utterly disconnected from the current situation.”

While McCain and others are entitled to their views, many are questioning why it is problematic to witness a joyful Black woman showcasing acts of love through culinary creations for her dear ones while encouraging others to do likewise, particularly during challenging times. Don’t we all need and deserve moments of joy?

A further significant aspect of Markle’s reemergence in the public sphere that many may not realize is her substantial expertise in the culinary and lifestyle domain, as she previously operated a highly successful lifestyle platform called The Tig, which offered insights into her life, including her friendships, relationships, and journeys in Vancouver. It was initially established for her to express her passions in travel, fashion, wellness, food, and other lifestyle subjects. It evolved into a sought-after destination for women seeking inspiration. The blog, named after her favorite wine, Tignanello, included recipes, travel tips, beauty advice, interviews with accomplished women, and guidance on how to live one’s best life. Although she closed the blog in 2017, shortly after falling for Prince Harry, the blog paved the way for her next venture, and the public critiquing her “new career” choice should acknowledge that this facet of Markle is nothing novel, but rather an evolution of her journey.