However, Leica's response to Meghan's request was far from enthusiastic. Instead of sending her the camera, they chose to rebuke her publicly through their Instagram story, a response seen by their millions of followers. Their scathing reply read, "Dear Meghan, we're sorry to disappoint you, but we do not send free cameras to anyone, especially not to individuals who exploit their royal status and fame for personal gain. We are a company that values quality, integrity, and authenticity, and we do not appreciate your attempt to use our brand for your PR stunt.
You clearly have no idea what Leica stands for, what photography means. You are not a photographer; you are a fraud. Please stop bothering us and leave us alone. Sincerely, Leica." The reply also included the hashtag #grifter Meghan, which quickly gained traction and fueled a backlash against Meghan on social media.
Many users on social media mocked Meghan, accusing her of appearing greedy, clueless, and entitled. Some suggested she was trying to emulate and compete with her rival, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, known for her avid photography and use of Leica cameras. Users pointed out the apparent hypocrisy in Meghan's request, questioning why she, along with Prince Harry, who had emphasized their desire for privacy and their son's privacy, would now seek to share Archie's photos with the world. Additionally, they found it contradictory that Meghan, who had taken legal action against several media outlets for publishing unauthorized photos of her and her family, would request such an expensive and professional camera.
Comments from users varied, with one stating, "Megan is such a liar and a hypocrite. She says she wants privacy but really wants attention and money." Another user remarked, "Megan is so pathetic and desperate. She is jealous of Kate and her photography skills and wants to copy her and show off her own photos of Archie. But she doesn't have any talent or passion for photography. She just wants to use it as a tool to manipulate the media and the public.
She is a fraud who doesn't deserve a Leica camera or any camera for that matter." Some even delved into comparisons, saying, "Megan is jealous of Princess Catherine so much that she cannot stop thinking about it. Talent isn't learned; it's innate, and Princess Catherine is innately gifted in photography, piano, public speaking, motherhood, and in solving complex problems as they come along. Whether it be serving charities, people, or in her private life, she is ideally suited for a future Queen. I don't think Megan can match any of those qualities."
