Just over 24 hours have passed since With Love, Meghan went live on Netflix, and the verdicts from reviewers and the public have come thick and fast. On the positive side, and let’s start with that, it has received plenty of attention. If you work on the basis that all publicity is good publicity then Netflix will be delighted with the reaction because, on the internet at least, this show is a hot topic.
However, much of the coverage from UK news outlets is focused on criticism of the program from commentators or reviewers. And the negative reviews themselves are out in force. With the exception of British Vogue, which was given an early view of the show, the response from reviewers for the UK media were scathing (although the London’s newspaper The Evening Standard mocked it but nevertheless gave it four stars).
In addition to cooking, Meghan’s new show focuses on entertaining more broadly, and in multiple episodes she offers tips on floral arranging.
The Times gave it two stars. The Spectator writer concluded it was “surreally dull.” The Daily Telegraph offered two stars, describing it as “an exercise in narcissism, filled with extravagant brunches, celebrity pals and business plugs.” The Guardian newspaper, which favors abolishing the monarchy and has previously published pieces condemning the treatment of Meghan, had one of the most critical reviews. It gave the program one star and hailed it “toe-curlingly unlovable TV.”
In a separate piece, a different writer suggested it could be the final thing Meghan makes for Netflix. The Independent newspaper also gave the show one star, with the reviewer observing, “The show simultaneously strains for aspiration and relatability in a way that never gels.” In a slightly more diplomatic take, Hello’s TV and film editor said she was “confused” by who the program was aimed at.
Netflix
On one episode, Meghan was joined by actress and writer Mindy Kaling.
Perhaps there was something inevitable about a negative response from at least sections of the British media, with whom Meghan has, let’s just say, plenty of baggage. However, the reality of serving yourself up for dissection by TV critics and the public when you have a stratospheric profile is that every viewer comes to the table with something already in mind. This was a relaunch, not a launch. Can the Sussexes truly expect anyone to receive them as if the past six years didn’t happen?
After making TV and podcasts with an outspoken element—whether it be criticizing the monarchy or the stereotypes that hold women back—With Love, Meghan strikes a completely different tone. This is a light-hearted entertainment program. And at the end of the day who would have thought that feel-good lifestyle content could spark such an explosion of backlash?
Prince Harry featured in only one episodes, but he was mentioned throughout the series.
Well, actually those of us who remember the reaction to Pippa Middleton’s Celebrate book might be inclined to draw some distinct parallels here; a royal relative with a hefty financial deal and the desire to build a lifestyle brand while still preserving the sanctity of their private life. Back in 2012, Pippa Middleton’s book Celebrate was subjected to plenty of criticism. The Guardian published an article concluding, “One cannot blame Pippa for being offered close to half a million pounds to provide guidance about how to make a cup of tea.” The Daily Mail ran a piece with a headline, “I’m not saying it’s basic, but it’s perfect for anyone who needs a recipe for making ice.”
As one Guardian writer took care to point out before launching into criticism of Meghan’s show this week, it is not impossible that a ratings smash could trump the impact of poor reviews. Meghan’s popularity with the British public has been low for several years, but that doesn’t mean that people won’t watch the show. The final verdict is far from in. As ever, we wait and see.
Contributing Editor
Town & Country Contributing Editor Victoria Murphy has reported on the British Royal Family since 2010. She has interviewed Prince Harry and has travelled the world covering several royal tours. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America. Victoria authored Town & Country book The Queen: A Life in Pictures, released in 2021.
