Discover the Surprising Reactions in Britain to Meghan Markle’s New Netflix Show

It’s been three years since Harry and Meghan opened up about their exit from the royal family in a revealing documentary series. During that time, Harry published his tell-all book, Spare, detailing their struggles with the royal family. Meghan also had her memorable interview with Oprah, where she famously asked, “Were you silent, or were you silenced?” For a while, tabloids in the UK were filled with headlines about the couple’s drama, but interest faded after the Queen’s passing and other royal news. They became more like an afterthought.

Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan have been working to build their own media presence. Meghan launched a podcast called Archetypes, which didn’t last long. They signed a hefty contract with Netflix, reportedly worth $100 million, but that hasn’t produced much yet. A documentary on polo and another on the Invictus Games didn’t capture much attention. Now, there’s With Love, Meghan.

After their public royal exit, it must be challenging for them to figure out their next steps. Meghan’s choice to start a lifestyle brand and a gentle TV show might seem harmless, but unfortunately, the content feels lackluster. As someone who often reviews shows, I found myself struggling to stay engaged. Each of the eight episodes is only thirty minutes, but I frequently felt bored. Meghan hosts her show in a sunny home, showcasing recipes and crafts—she makes pasta, candles, and vegetable arrangements. It’s pleasant, but it lacks depth. The discussions around Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending, seem repetitive and overdone in lifestyle programming.

Meghan comes off as a lovely person—cheerful and engaging. I worry that With Love, Meghan doesn’t reflect her true capabilities. Many people in the UK criticize her simply for existing, and I don’t want to contribute to that negativity. That said, the show has not resonated well with British viewers. Critics describe it as dull and lacking substance. A writer from the Telegraph commented that the whole “hostess with the mostess” act must be exhausting to watch, while the Spectator called it “surreally dull.” The Guardian labeled it a “ghastly artifact” of a bygone era.

Part of the issue is the show’s vibe, which feels distinctly Californian. Until watching this, I hadn’t fully realized how Meghan’s background set her apart from the British royals. She embodies a sunny, optimistic outlook that’s at odds with the more reserved British demeanor. This cultural mismatch has likely played a significant role in her disconnect with the royal family. It’s easy to picture King Charles feeling out of place in a sunny California setting. Meghan’s cheerful approach contrasts sharply with the traditional British stiff upper lip.

Trying to imagine British royals embracing the open enthusiasm of Meghan’s style feels strange. While it works for her, it’s not something most Brits can relate to, which complicates her potential to attract that audience. British lifestyle shows, featuring hosts like Stacey Solomon or Nigella Lawson, maintain a very different tone. Viewers here don’t typically express the same level of emotional praise and encouragement that Meghan and her friends do on her show. Having Harry appear briefly for a toast throughout the series only highlights this disconnect even more.

In conclusion, while I genuinely don’t dislike Meghan, it’s clear there’s a cultural gap between her and many in the UK. I wish her well as she navigates her life in California, even if I hope to avoid more episodes like this.