Meghan Markle’s new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, has arrived with much fanfare—and plenty of skepticism. The eight-episode lifestyle series features the Duchess of Sussex engaging in everything from cooking and crafting to beekeeping and gardening, often with celebrity guests in tow. But while it aims to offer an intimate look into her passions and everyday life, the show has sparked debate over its authenticity, relatability, and overall purpose.
Aesthetic Goals vs. Authenticity
One thing With Love, Meghan does undeniably well? It looks gorgeous. The series is beautifully shot, with a soft, polished aesthetic that feels straight out of an upscale home and garden magazine. Every frame is curated, from the rustic kitchen settings to the dreamy outdoor shots. The cinematography, led by Michael Steed, adds a layer of elegance that makes the series visually appealing—even if some viewers find the content itself lacking.
The issue, however, is that many critics feel the show comes across as overly staged. Meghan tries her hand at various hobbies, but there’s little depth or real expertise in her approach. Viewers hoping for actual instructional content or heartfelt storytelling may find themselves disappointed. Instead, it often feels like a series of carefully orchestrated moments designed to showcase a particular image rather than genuine passions.
Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, criticized Markle’s how-to segments, stating to Fox News, “This isn’t innovative, it’s backwards.” She noted that while the projects are visually appealing, they aren’t particularly original and lack authenticity. “It’s aesthetically pleasing but not where the content world is at right now. It’s too controlled. Too glossy. Too produced,” she added.
The Relatability Factor—or Lack Thereof
One of the biggest critiques of With Love, Meghan is its failure to connect with the average viewer. While lifestyle shows typically succeed by making their hosts feel relatable, Meghan’s series struggles in this area. Many of the activities—such as beekeeping or archery—feel like curated “hobby tourism” rather than natural pastimes. Critics have pointed out that the show presents an idealized version of domestic life that most people simply can’t replicate, making it feel distant rather than aspirational.
Mixed Reviews and Public Reaction
The public response to With Love, Meghan has been, well, complicated. Some fans appreciate the cozy, calming vibe of the series, seeing it as a relaxing escape. But others, including many critics, have dismissed it as lacking purpose, warmth, and genuine substance. There’s been a lot of talk about how the show seems more like a branding effort than a genuine attempt at lifestyle storytelling.
According to some reviews, With Love, Meghan feels like an extended PR piece rather than an authentic window into her life. Variety even described it as a “Montecito ego trip,” suggesting it lacks real substance beyond its polished exterior.
A Glimpse Into Meghan’s Personal Life
Despite the criticisms, there are moments in With Love, Meghan that offer small glimpses of authenticity. Meghan shares personal anecdotes, reflecting on childhood memories and her time living abroad. These moments add a layer of warmth that some viewers may appreciate, even if they feel few and far between. The inclusion of her son, Archie, in a few episodes also brings a touch of genuine family life—though some argue these glimpses feel just as carefully managed as the rest of the show.
Final Thoughts
So, is With Love, Meghan worth watching? If you love aesthetically pleasing lifestyle content with a touch of celebrity glamour, you might enjoy it. But if you’re looking for something truly insightful, instructional, or deeply personal, this might not be the show for you.
Ultimately, With Love, Meghan seems to be less about connecting with audiences and more about reinforcing Meghan’s brand. Whether that works for viewers depends entirely on what they were hoping to get out of it.
