McCain recently slammed Meghan Markle’s latest Netflix project, With Love, Meghan, calling it a "tone-deaf vanity project." As someone who’s been following the royal drama for years, even I was left shaking my head in disbelief over this new development.
In the trailer for With Love, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex is seen baking pastries in a luxury kitchen, harvesting honey in her backyard, and hosting celebrity friends—all while many Americans face rising costs and economic uncertainty. The disconnect between the show’s glamorous lifestyle content and the reality of everyday struggles has sparked outrage, and McCain didn’t hold back.
McCain, who once supported Meghan, criticized the timing of the release, pointing out that while average families are choosing between heating and eating, this show feels more like a "Martha Stewart wannabe moment." The contrast between this project and the efforts of working royals like William and Catherine couldn’t be more stark.
While the Princess of Wales focuses on meaningful family time and impactful initiatives, With Love, Meghan presents curated perfection. The show, backed by a reported $100 million Netflix deal, has many questioning the Sussexes' priorities.
McCain—and many others—argued that the couple has missed a chance to make a real difference. Imagine using a platform like Netflix to address food insecurity, promote sustainability, or support underserved communities. Instead, viewers are treated to segments of luxury living that feel out of step with the challenges faced by everyday people.
The criticism doesn’t stop with Meghan. Prince Harry’s involvement—or lack thereof—has also been a topic of discussion. Once celebrated for his charitable work and initiatives like the Invictus Games, Harry now appears as little more than a supporting character in his wife’s lifestyle brand.
The public response has been overwhelmingly critical. Comments on social media highlight frustration with the couple's apparent focus on personal branding over meaningful contributions. McCain summed it up bluntly: "This is why people don’t like you."
In contrast, working royals like William, Catherine, King Charles, and Queen Camilla continue to prioritize public service. From championing environmental causes to addressing social issues, they embody a commitment to making real change. Their approach resonates because it feels genuine and grounded, unlike the glossy lifestyle content presented in With Love, Meghan.
As someone who’s covered royal affairs for years, I can’t help but feel disappointed by the Sussexes' trajectory. Their platform had the potential to spotlight critical issues and drive real change, but it seems to have veered into the realm of unattainable luxury.
