In a stunning turn of events, former First Lady Michelle Obama did not hold back in her latest podcast, delivering a scathing critique that many believe was aimed at Meghan Markle’s new cooking show, ‘With Love.’
The podcast, which featured candid discussions on leadership, authenticity, and cultural appreciation, saw Obama subtly but unmistakably call out Markle’s latest venture as an example of superficial branding rather than genuine culinary passion.
Markle, who has long positioned herself as a humanitarian and advocate for change, recently announced ‘With Love,’ a Netflix-backed cooking series designed to showcase diverse recipes with a personal touch. However, critics—including Obama—argue that the show is little more than a calculated attempt to stay relevant rather than a sincere effort to promote culinary inclusivity.
Obama’s remarks, delivered with her signature grace and intelligence, suggested that true leadership and influence stem from lived experiences and genuine connections—not media stunts and carefully curated storytelling.
During the podcast, Obama reflected on how food can be a powerful tool for community building but also stressed the importance of humility and authenticity in storytelling. Without naming Markle directly, the former First Lady pointed out how some public figures exploit cultural narratives for personal gain, reducing significant traditions to mere aesthetic backdrops for their own brand-building efforts.
“It’s not enough to just tell a story,” Obama said. “It has to come from a place of truth, not a marketing campaign.” This statement was widely interpreted as a thinly veiled critique of Markle’s latest endeavor.
This is not the first time Meghan Markle has faced accusations of insincerity. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, she has been criticized for leveraging her royal connections to secure lucrative deals while crafting a victim narrative that many believe is exaggerated. Critics argue that her ventures—whether in media or philanthropy—often lack depth and feel more like vanity projects than meaningful contributions.
Unlike Michelle Obama, who has built a lasting legacy through grassroots initiatives, advocacy, and policy-driven efforts such as ‘Let’s Move’ and ‘Becoming,’ Markle’s projects often appear fleeting, driven by opportunism rather than real commitment.
The contrast between the two women’s public personas could not be more striking. Obama’s podcast segment, which celebrated leaders who uplift others without centering themselves, seemed to highlight exactly where Markle falls short.
As public reaction to Obama’s words continues to grow, many are once again questioning Meghan Markle’s motives. Is ‘With Love’ truly about food and culture, or is it just another strategic attempt to maintain public interest?
One thing is certain—when a woman of Michelle Obama’s stature subtly calls out the shallowness of modern celebrity activism, people take notice. And once again, Meghan Markle finds herself at the center of the storm.
