Meghan Markle's latest venture, the lifestyle show "With Love, Meghan," is already generating buzz – and not all of it is positive. Early reviews are in, and critics are pulling no punches, questioning the show's sincerity and overall value. Is it a genuine passion project, a carefully crafted rebrand, or simply a money-making exercise? The internet seems to be debating all of the above.
A Pursuit of Joy... or Perfection?
The show's trailer promises a journey in "pursuit of joy," but some viewers are already finding it rings hollow. As one review points out, the Duchess's idyllic Montecito farmhouse setting, complete with beekeeping, may feel out of touch with the struggles many people are facing. The reviewer suggests the show "vibrates with vacuous joylessness."
The show begins with bees. "I’m trying to stay in the calm of it because it’s beautiful to be this connected," Markle says in the show, speaking of beekeeping. One critic states that Markle "sees them as a reminder to do something that scares you a little bit. Like, say, making a tone-deaf lifestyle show in a $8m (£6.3m) Montecito farmhouse while the US and beyond goes to hell in a handcart."
Royal Comparisons and Rebranding Efforts
Adding fuel to the fire, royal experts are weighing in on Meghan's motivations. Some suggest that her marriage was driven by a desire for "title and prestige," contrasting her with Princess Kate, who supposedly married "in spite of" such motivations.
It's worth noting that the show's trailer avoids direct references to the royal family, leading some to believe it's a deliberate attempt at rebranding. However, subtle digs and an emphasis on her "perfect" life outside "The Firm" may inadvertently keep the royal connection alive in the public's mind.
"I Am Sussex Now"
An interesting anecdote from the show involves Mindy Kaling repeatedly referring to Meghan by her maiden name. The Duchess, however, corrected her, stating, "I Am Sussex Now." This seemingly small moment highlights Meghan's desire to define her own identity and embrace her new title.
Whether "With Love, Meghan" will ultimately be a success remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: it has already sparked a lively debate about Meghan Markle's image, motivations, and place in the public eye.
"We're not in the pursuit of perfection, we're in the pursuit of joy." - Meghan Markle in the show's trailer.