Meghan Markle’s highly anticipated Netflix lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, has finally premiered—but the reaction hasn’t been what she may have hoped for. While some viewers have praised her insights on wellness, cooking, and relationships, others have been less than impressed, accusing her of trying too hard to be the next Martha Stewart.
Adding to the backlash, Meghan’s estranged father, Thomas Markle, has publicly criticized the show, calling it inauthentic and detached from reality.
Thomas Markle Calls Meghan ‘Rehearsed’ and ‘Out of Touch’
Thomas Markle, who now resides in the Philippines, has not watched the entire series but has seen enough clips online to form an opinion. According to Daily Mail, he believes his daughter’s presentation lacks sincerity.
“You have to be authentic to hold people’s attention,” he said. “Unfortunately, Meghan has never been authentic. She has to think about everything. She’s not spontaneous. Everything she says is pre-planned and rehearsed.”
One of his biggest issues with the show is Meghan’s claim that she grew up as a “latchkey kid” who relied on TV dinners and fast food. Thomas insists this portrayal is inaccurate, stating that he provided a comfortable life for his daughter.
“We occasionally ate TV dinners—what family doesn’t? But I was working two jobs, so money was never an issue. We ate out at least three times a week and ordered in the rest of the time,” he said, adding that Meghan frequently dined at high-end Hollywood restaurants as a child.
A Lifestyle Out of Reach for Many?
Thomas also criticized the show’s cooking segment, arguing that Meghan’s food choices are impractical for everyday families.
“Meghan should focus on making affordable meals and showing people how to stretch their food budget,” he said, noting that her recipes often feature luxury ingredients like edible flowers and elaborate fruit platters.
“I don’t think most people these days can afford to go out and spend $90 (R1 644) on fruit. She’s out of touch with normal people,” he added.
He also found her suggestions for school lunches unrealistic. “Sending kids off to school with edible flowers on their food is silly. Kids don’t like them, and if you put edible flowers in a kid’s lunchbox, they would probably get teased at school.”
A Relationship That Remains Strained
Thomas Markle and Meghan have been estranged since her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, which he missed due to health issues. Despite their ongoing rift, he still recalls their last shared meal together fondly—a stark contrast to the fractured relationship they have today.
As With Love, Meghan continues to spark debate, one thing is clear: the Duchess of Sussex remains a polarizing figure, even within her own family.
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