Meghan Markle Debuts New Netflix Series: "With Love, Meghan"

A Return to Lifestyle Content

"With Love, Meghan" marks Meghan's return to lifestyle content, reminiscent of her pre-royal days when she curated "The Tig," a lifestyle blog that showcased her interests in food, travel, and fashion. In this series, Meghan invites viewers into a serene setting where she engages in various domestic activities, from harvesting honey and making beeswax candles to preparing meals with fresh ingredients from her garden. Each episode features Meghan collaborating with friends and experts, including actress Mindy Kaling, chef Roy Choi, and neighbor Vicky Tsai, as they explore themes of friendship, culture, and the joys of homemaking.​

Production Choices & Setting

To maintain privacy, the series was filmed at a rented $12.8 million farmhouse rather than Meghan and Prince Harry's $20 million Montecito mansion. This decision allowed Meghan to portray an "average rustic" lifestyle while protecting her family's personal space. The chosen location exudes rustic charm, with scenes of Meghan picking berries, baking, and engaging in crafts, aiming to connect with viewers seeking authenticity and simplicity in their domestic lives. ​

Personal Reflections & Subtle Messages

Throughout the series, Meghan shares personal anecdotes and reflections, offering viewers insight into her life beyond the public eye. In one episode, while discussing the art of repairing broken pottery with her neighbor Vicky Tsai, Meghan draws a parallel to personal healing, stating, "If you've been through something, you're not broken. It can be fixed, it can be sealed and healed at the same time." Such moments have been interpreted as subtle references to her experiences within the royal family and her journey towards personal fulfillment. 

Critical Reception & Public Perception

The series has elicited a spectrum of reactions from critics and audiences alike. Some reviewers have praised Meghan's attempt to create a serene and joyful viewing experience. However, others have criticized the show for being out of touch with the average viewer, suggesting that Meghan's approach lacks the accessibility that lifestyle gurus like Martha Stewart or Joanna Gaines offer. ​Social media users echoed such sentiments, describing the series as overly perfect and staged, catering primarily to the affluent.

Prince Harry's Involvement

Prince Harry's presence in the series is minimal, with a brief appearance in the final episode during a small gathering with close friends and family. This deliberate choice underscores the series' focus on Meghan's personal journey and interests, allowing her to reconnect with her passions while being supported by her family. ​

A Strategic Career Move

"With Love, Meghan" represents a strategic effort by the Duchess to redefine her public persona and establish herself as a lifestyle influencer. Following the couple's departure from royal duties and their move to the United States in 2020, Meghan has explored various media ventures, including the launch of her lifestyle brand "As Ever." The series aligns with this brand, aiming to inspire viewers to find joy in everyday moments and embrace creativity in their domestic lives. ​

In Conclusion

"With Love, Meghan" offers an intimate look into Meghan Markle's approach to lifestyle and homemaking, blending personal reflections with practical tips. While the series has faced criticism for its perceived lack of relatability, it also provides fans with a deeper understanding of Meghan's values and aspirations. As she continues to navigate her post-royal life, this Netflix series serves as a testament to her resilience and desire to connect with audiences on her own terms.

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