Last month, it was revealed that the Sussexes are gearing up to work on two separate factual series with Netflix amid their multi-million dollar deal with the streaming platform. One series, headed by Harry, will explore the world of professional polo, while another, led by Meghan, will focus on gardening, cooking, and lifestyle. Meghan's show is expected to celebrate the joys of cooking, gardening, entertaining, and friendship. This announcement came shortly after Meghan unveiled her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, rumored to sell home decor items and cooking condiments.
However, it seems that Harry and Meghan are now shifting gears to Paramount. What happened to the highly-touted $100 million Netflix contract and the cooking show that was supposed to be the talk of the town? Everything seemed to be going smoothly, but intriguing blind items suggest that the chefs, not Meghan, are rather fed up. Despite her self-proclaimed culinary prowess, Meghan isn't exactly a chef. The streaming giant was reportedly quite displeased with Meghan when she refused to participate in an upfront presentation for the new show, deeming it beneath her status.
The celebrity chef's reaction was notable, as he's always there for his network without fail. The cooking show is now on shaky ground, with Netflix hesitant to air it, largely due to Meghan's insistence on micromanaging the chefs. Remember Selena Gomez's cooking show? It was charming despite her limited kitchen skills. In contrast, Meghan has taken the reins and driven the show off a cliff, leading to directors quitting and staff walking out, creating a big mess.
After launching a new brand in March, Meghan has faced scrutiny, leading to perceptions of her being sensitive. As part of the brand launch, which featured a new website and Instagram account, Meghan distributed jars of strawberry jam, the brand's inaugural product, to 50 friends and influencers for tasting. Notably, Meghan personally numbered each jar from 1 to 50 to suggest exclusivity.
Royal expert and author Tom Quinn suggests that Meghan anticipates criticism for everything she does, particularly in light of the backlash surrounding the jam. Speaking to The Mirror, Mr. Quinn said, "Like her husband, she feels that people are unfairly picking on her. She can't understand why people don't admire her work." He also noted that she isn't prepared for further criticism, adding that she is extremely sensitive about any criticism of her luxurious lifestyle in the United States. From her point of view, this is something to be admired and not criticized.
According to the publication, Meghan is currently planning a PR blitz in the run-up to American Riviera Orchard's official launch later this year. She hopes to attract new followers and ideally secure appearances on chat shows and podcasts. Meghan may even be available for interviews with specially selected journalists in an attempt to drive online sales. She is said to be desperate to improve her image in the US and UK.
