Table of Contents
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has recently launched her lifestyle show, With Love, Meghan, on Netflix, but the reception has been anything but warm. Premiering on March 4, the show currently holds a disappointing 33% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a significant disconnect between Markle’s vision and audience expectations.
Critics have been vocal about their disappointment, suggesting that the show lacks authenticity and fails to resonate with viewers.
Critics weigh in on the show’s shortcomings
During a recent interview, Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, expressed her views on why With Love, Meghan missed the mark.
She stated, “Meghan needs to elevate the people around her instead of hijacking all the oxygen in the room.” This sentiment reflects a broader critique that Markle appears self-absorbed, often overshadowing her guests rather than showcasing their talents and stories.
The show features notable personalities like Mindy Kaling and celebrity chefs, yet many feel that Markle’s presence dominates the narrative.
Authenticity and connection: What viewers want
Royal photographer Helena Chard echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Markle’s lack of charisma and genuine connection with her guests detracts from the show’s appeal.
“It would do Meghan’s character wonders if she changed things up by focusing and lifting her guests for a change,” Chard noted. This desire for authenticity is crucial, especially in a landscape where audiences crave real, relatable content. Critics argue that the production feels staged and lacks the spontaneity that makes lifestyle shows engaging.
Comparisons to other projects and future prospects
The backlash against With Love, Meghan is reminiscent of the criticism faced by Prince Harry’s documentary, Polo, which also struggled to connect with viewers. Hilary Fordwich, another royal expert, pointed out that both shows suffer from a similar lack of authenticity and relatability.
As Markle prepares for the second season of her show, which has already been filmed, the question remains: can she pivot and deliver content that resonates more deeply with her audience?
Despite the negative reviews, Markle has celebrated the show’s initial success, noting its entry into Netflix’s Top 10 shortly after release. However, as the ratings fluctuate, it remains to be seen whether she can turn the tide and create a series that not only showcases her lifestyle but also connects with viewers on a personal level. The challenge ahead is significant, but with the right adjustments, there may still be hope for a more favorable reception in the future.
