Meghan Markle created quite a stir with the release of the trailer for her new Netflix series, *With Love, Meghan*, set to premiere later this month. However, it seems to have left viewers and experts confused.
The trailer for Meghan’s show has been labeled as “laughable” by some, with many expressing bewilderment over its content. Following her dramatic return to Instagram on New Year’s Day, Meghan released a teaser for her upcoming eight-part series, *With Love, Meghan*, a day later. The show, debuting on January 15, features Meghan hosting friends and celebrities at a California estate, where she shares tips on cooking, gardening, and hosting.
The trailer shows Meghan preparing food with guests like actresses Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer from *Suits*, arranging flowers, and even engaging in beekeeping—a hobby famously enjoyed by her estranged sister-in-law, the Princess of Wales.
Royal historian Dr. Tessa Dunlop warned that the overly perfect portrayal in the trailer could be problematic for Meghan. Speaking to *The Mirror*, Dr. Dunlop commented, “It’s easy to mock Meghan’s seemingly perfect world in her new Netflix trailer: semi-famous friends, fresh food, and Insta-ready visuals.”
She added, “But, Meghan reassures us that elevating ordinary things is just what she does. And no, she’s not referring to Prince Harry, who also appears in the trailer alongside her millennial friends. Chef Roy Choi says they’re ‘family now,’ which could be ominous given the Sussexes’ past with close relations.”
Dr. Dunlop continued, “It’s so easy to scoff at a reality series where one of the wealthiest women in the world teaches us ‘little tips and tricks.’ Showing how ‘we can incorporate these practices’ into our daily lives as she strolls through her sunlit garden, with a retro basket, before tending to designer bee hives dripping with honey, is laughably out-of-reach for most people.”
Viewers have also expressed confusion, especially as the trailer does not mention Meghan’s much-publicized lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. Announced with much fanfare last March, the brand was expected to offer jams, spreads, and homeware, showcased by her celebrity friends on social media. However, the products are not yet available for purchase, and the brand’s Instagram account has been silent, leading to questions about its future.
On social media, users asked, “Didn’t she start an IG account under American Riviera Orchard?” and “Why no mention of American Riviera Orchard?”
Despite the confusion, Dr. Dunlop believes the show could succeed, particularly in the U.S. She explained, “In America, there is a different relationship with perfection. While British audiences prefer relatable soap operas, Americans embrace escapism with a glossy, successful sheen, like in *Dynasty* or *Friends*.”
She continued, “Meghan fits into this mold perfectly with her curated aesthetic. Her friends, including Abigail Spencer, Mindy Kaling, and Delfina Blaquier, embody elegance and perfection. They’re not pursuing perfection but joy.”
Dr. Dunlop concluded, “Americans, invited to watch and dream, will likely resonate with Meghan’s portrayal of love and joy, even if it’s a far cry from reality.”
Harry also makes an appearance in the trailer, seen embracing Meghan, indicating his support for her project. The couple has been working separately recently, with Meghan focusing on business ventures and Harry on charitable work.
Meghan’s gesture of calling her and Harry “salt and pepper” because they “always move together” resurfaces, showing their unity. Body language expert Judi James noted Harry’s pride and emotional support for Meghan in the trailer.
James added, “Meghan flaunts her friends instead of directly addressing the audience, showcasing her Montecito ‘family.’ The trailer and possibly the series highlight how much Meghan is loved and loves in return. Words like ‘love,’ ‘friends,’ and ‘joy’ dominate the narrative.”
She concluded, “Meghan’s portrayal of love, friends, and family, alongside gentle activities like beekeeping, might not offer an accessible lifestyle, but it serves as a strong PR move to rebrand Meghan as a ‘sweet-treat’ personality.”