After nearly a decade of Meghan Markle’s public image being shaped by others, her new Netflix show, With Love, Meghan, claims to reclaim the narrative. But what narrative exactly? According to critics and viewers, the show is so bland and boring that it’s hard to pinpoint what story Meghan is trying to tell.
The narrative Meghan seems to be pushing is one of empowerment and authenticity. But for many, it falls flat. The show features Meghan baking, arranging flowers, and sharing lifestyle tips—all while dressed in her signature “stealth wealth” aesthetic. Yet, the content feels disconnected and, frankly, unrelatable.
Some outlets, however, are framing the show as a bold move to redefine Meghan’s image. They argue that after years of being defined by the media and the royal family, With Love, Meghan is her chance to take control of her story. But is it working?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the double standards Meghan has faced since joining the royal family. From the moment she stepped into the spotlight, the media scrutiny was relentless. Remember the avocado toast scandal? Meghan was criticized for eating avocados, while Kate Middleton was praised for her glowing skin. The racial undertones in the coverage were impossible to ignore, with headlines comparing Meghan to a “chimp” and questioning her place in the royal family.
But here’s the thing: those criticisms were rooted in racism and sexism. Fast forward to today, and Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, are as fair-skinned as they come. The “chimp” comparisons? Completely unfounded and offensive.
Now, let’s talk about Meghan’s relationship with the royal family. Some believe she entered the monarchy with a plan—a “maniacal power trip,” as some have called it. The idea was that Meghan would waltz in, take over, and reshape the institution in her image. But that didn’t happen. Instead, she and Harry stepped back from their royal duties, moved to California, and launched their own brand.
The narrative that Meghan and Harry were “stolen” from the royal family is also up for debate. Some argue that the royal family didn’t steal Harry away—they essentially handed him over to Meghan, hoping she’d take him off their hands. Harsh? Maybe. But it’s a perspective worth considering.
As for the idea of abolishing the monarchy, it’s often misinterpreted. When people say “abolish the monarchy,” they’re not talking about dismantling the entire institution. They’re suggesting that Meghan and Harry should replace Charles, Camilla, William, and Kate as the faces of the royal family. But let’s be real: that’s not happening anytime soon.
