Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, has stirred controversy ahead of its official release on March 4. 

Initially believed to be a cooking and lifestyle show, the series was expected to highlight the joys of cooking, gardening, entertaining, and friendship. 

However, early reports suggest that the Duchess of Sussex does not engage in any actual cooking on the show, 

which has led to criticism from royal commentator Rupert Bell and backlash from some viewers.

Rupert Bell Criticizes Meghan’s Show as “Fake”

Speaking on GB News alongside Russell Quirk, royal correspondent Rupert Bell did not hold back in his assessment of the show, 

branding it “fake” and predicting it would struggle to connect with audiences. Expressing his strong disapproval, he remarked, “Every time I have to watch the trailer, I cringe.”

Bell questioned Meghan’s credibility as a lifestyle expert, pointing out that there is no evidence of her engaging in household tasks such as gardening or cooking. He also took issue with the fact that the series was reportedly not filmed in her actual home.

“She didn’t even film it in her house, so that immediately makes it fake. There’s probably a significant production crew preparing everything,” he claimed.

Bell went on to criticize the guest lineup, which includes actress and producer Mindy Kaling, chefs Roy Choi and Alice Waters, and actress Abigail Spencer. He suggested that the show lacked true star power, stating, “Looking at the list of friends she’s got coming, it’s not really an A-list lot.”

A Lifestyle Show Without Cooking?

The show’s premise was initially thought to center around cooking, but according to sources who have seen previews, it is more focused on hosting and entertaining rather than culinary instruction.

A source told The Daily Mail, “There is no point at which Meghan says ‘take 200 grams of flour’ or anything like that.” Instead, the show offers an aspirational take on entertaining, with Meghan providing inspiration rather than step-by-step recipes.

The source described it as “a very magical and beautiful guide to hosting and entertaining rather than a how-to cookery show.” They added, “It’s about inspiration—more like, ‘Why not try and make this kind of pasta or this kind of dessert?’”

This unexpected format has reportedly left some viewers surprised, as many assumed the show would feature Meghan actively preparing meals. The absence of traditional cooking segments has fueled criticism that the series does not align with its perceived branding.

Prince Harry’s Minimal Presence

Another point of discussion surrounding With Love, Meghan is the near absence of Prince Harry. According to sources, the Duke of Sussex is “barely glimpsed” in the series, and the focus remains entirely on Meghan.

“Harry isn’t in it. It’s all her, and all about her. It’s very watchable,” a source shared. While some fans of Meghan may appreciate the solo spotlight, others might have expected to see more of the couple’s dynamic in the show.

Netflix Stands by Meghan and Harry

Despite the criticism, Netflix appears to be firmly backing Meghan’s new venture. The company’s Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed enthusiasm for the show and the future of Meghan and Harry’s partnership with the streaming giant.

Speaking about the upcoming release, Bajaria said, “We have Meghan’s new show coming out, which is great. It is such a great take on a lifestyle show and showcase for California, Montecito, and nature. It really has great takeaways. I was like, ‘Oh my God, I want to really do that pasta.’ There’s really easy great takeaways on life. I am really excited about that coming out.”

Can With Love, Meghan Overcome the Backlash?

Meghan Markle’s Netflix journey has been met with mixed reactions since she and Prince Harry signed their multi-million-dollar deal with the platform. While Netflix executives seem optimistic about With Love, Meghan, the criticism from figures like Rupert Bell and the confusion over its content could pose challenges.

If audiences tune in expecting a traditional cooking show, they may be disappointed. However, those who enjoy Meghan’s approach to lifestyle and entertaining may still find the series appealing. The real test will come after its release, as viewers ultimately decide whether With Love, Meghan is a refreshing addition to Netflix’s lifestyle programming or another project that fails to live up to expectations.

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