In under a decade since their initial meeting, the relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has unfolded against a backdrop of significant royal family developments and global events. Amidst the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, a worldwide pandemic, and personal milestones including welcoming their children, Archie and Lilibet, Meghan’s public image has dramatically shifted. Once hailed as a refreshing addition to the monarchy, she has become a figure of considerable public debate.
Whether admired, criticized, or simply observed with detached curiosity, Meghan Markle remains a prominent figure. Recent media attention surrounding her Netflix series on home and lifestyle topics, featuring items like candles and fruit, demonstrates her continued ability to generate headlines. In the UK, publications like Scotland’s Daily Record offered sharp critiques, labeling Meghan as “a bland Betty Crocker,” while The Guardian dismissed the series as “gormless lifestyle filler.” In the United States, New York Magazine suggested Meghan was “pioneering ‘new frontiers of unrelatability’,” contrasting with Refinery29‘s more nuanced, if somewhat qualified, praise for its “soothing banality.”
Despite mixed critical reception, With Love, Meghan achieved a top ten ranking on Netflix, leading to the prompt announcement of a second season. By mid-March, interest in Meghan reached a peak, underscoring a perception that her drive for global influence is a central point of contention, exacerbated by her seemingly unwavering approach irrespective of public commentary.
A prevailing sentiment questions why Meghan, seemingly having attained a desirable life with a prince, does not simply embrace it instead of pursuing further endeavors. This contrasts with public acceptance of other high-profile figures like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, who have successfully built global brands and capitalized on their public image, often through leveraging their relationships. Why is Meghan viewed differently?
Meredith Maines, Chief Communications Officer for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, addressed the ongoing discussion surrounding Meghan, stating, “Meghan is pursuing various entrepreneurial and professional projects. The persistent scrutiny is fueled by sensationalism and systems that thrive on targeting women. It is important for audiences to consider why media outlets prioritize clicks over objectively reporting on a female founder, a mother, who is actively building and creating. As Meghan expands her brand through her show and podcast, we look forward to engaging with media partners interested in covering the business aspects and the power of brand development by a female founder.”
To understand the public’s complex reactions to Meghan, it is crucial to consult with those who have professional and personal insights into her career, the royal family, and the entertainment sector. These perspectives can offer a clearer understanding of why Meghan, a 43-year-old actress, entrepreneur, and mother, remains a polarizing figure.
Public Perception of Meghan Markle
To understand the complex reactions surrounding Meghan Markle, it’s essential to consider various facets of her public image and actions.
Ambition and Business Ventures
Even as discussions about her personal interests continue, Meghan launched a new podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder. This announcement, shortly after debates about her lifestyle pursuits, highlights her ongoing entrepreneurial drive. Meghan expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating she is “so proud of what we’re creating and the candid conversations that I’m able to have with other female founders as we unpack the twists and turns of building a business.”
Meghan’s ventures include the Archewell Foundation, associated audio projects, a children’s book, and the lifestyle brand initially named American Riviera Orchard, later refined to As Ever. These endeavors suggest a vision of Meghan as a lifestyle authority, drawing parallels to figures like Gwyneth Paltrow and Martha Stewart but with a royal association.
It’s noteworthy that Meghan’s current pursuits align with long-standing interests. Before her royal association, and recognition as the “Suits actress dating Prince Harry,” she maintained various projects focused on fashion, food, and entertainment. Her past ventures include the anonymous blog The Working Actress (2010) and the lifestyle blog The Tig. In 2016, concurrent with meeting Prince Harry, she hosted the culinary series Power Lunch with Meghan Markle. Thus, her current endeavors represent an expansion of established interests, now amplified by a larger platform.
Emily Sorrells, a long-time acquaintance from The Tig era, affirmed this consistency. “The projects Meghan has been working on recently reflect a side of her I have known for years,” Sorrells told Us. “She has always felt a responsibility to use her platform to make a positive impact. In her role as the founder of The Tig, she spoke openly and vulnerably about her own life and allowed others to do the same. In the process, she created a community and connected with us all on everything from travel and food to mental health and community service.”
However, PR expert Evan Nierman of Red Banyan suggests a potential gap between initiation and sustained engagement. “Meghan has always been great at launching new ventures, but her problem is sustaining them,” Nierman stated to Us. “When a project is meant to be a reinvention but ends up reinforcing the same old criticisms, it’s a major misstep.”
Another aspect is Meghan’s perceived self-awareness. While figures like Gwyneth Paltrow are known for self-deprecating humor regarding their wellness-focused brands, Meghan’s approach has sometimes been viewed as lacking this element. More recently, however, Meghan has shown signs of adopting a more playful tone, evidenced by sending humorous notes to podcasters and collaborating with Paltrow to address rumors. Royal commentator Kristen Meinzer noted this shift, telling Us, “The show is a natural extension of her Tig brand. It’s pretty, the tips are a mix of both aspirational and accessible… Does everyone love it? No, especially the Meghan haters — who, I can only surmise, would love the show if it were exactly the same, but hosted by Kate.”
Comparisons to Royal Predecessors
Public expectations surrounding Prince Harry‘s marriage were considerable, with intense focus on finding a “perfect woman.” Meghan’s entry into the royal family differed significantly from established norms. At the time of their engagement in 2016, both were in their thirties, and Meghan had prior experience as a divorced woman (her marriage to Trevor Engelson concluded in 2014). This contrasted sharply with previous royal spouses.
Elizabeth Holmes, author of HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style, emphasizes this distinction. “[Kate and Diana] had not lived an independent life. Diana was 19; Kate was in college. They were not fully formed humans! Meghan, on the other hand, by the time she met Harry, had done a lot… gone to an impressive college [Northwestern], carved out a career for herself, had been hustling in different ways. She knew what it was like to live and earn a living all on your own.”
Meghan’s independent background initially seemed refreshing, aligning with Prince Harry’s own image as a less conventional royal. However, this independence may have also contributed to challenges in adapting to royal life. Christopher Andersen, author of Brothers and Wives and The King, suggests, “If Meghan could have learned to stick it out in the U.K. as a full-time royal — if only for Harry’s sake — I think she’d rank today not far below Kate as one of the world’s most admired women.”
With their departure from royal duties in 2020 and relocation to California, a return to that path seems unlikely. Nierman believes reputational recovery will be difficult. “Meghan took what could have been a real-life fairy tale and turned it into an ugly ‘tell-all,’ almost like ruining a Disney movie,” he states. “She misjudged how much goodwill she could burn before people lost interest, and now she’s facing the reality that rebuilding a reputation is far harder than maintaining one.”
Publicist Jane Owen points to a perception of ingratitude as damaging. “She made the mistake that has always gone down badly with the general public: she complained about her massive privilege,” Owen explains. “Yes, being rich and famous is a burden, but the people struggling to buy eggs don’t want to hear about it… She also needs to acknowledge that she now sits in a place of privilege and wealth that is far beyond the target audience she’s hoping to reach.”
The Factor of Race
Meghan Markle’s biracial identity, with an African American mother, Doria Ragland, and a Caucasian father, Thomas Markle, places her in a unique public position. This background highlights the experiences of individuals of dual heritage, who sometimes face challenges in being fully embraced by either Black or white communities. Some observers suggest Meghan’s approach has not fully navigated this complex dynamic.
Danielle Cadet, a journalist and former editor-in-chief of Essence, discussed the role of race in Meghan’s public perception with Us. “From a Black person’s perspective… there is a disconnect from her because she doesn’t necessarily identify or participate in Blackness in a way beyond her feeling a typical appearance would mean that she’d be welcomed,” Cadet stated. She added, “From the perspective of Black people, it’s hard to decide whether or not we want to defend her in any way, because it’s like, do you even really identify with us?”
Cadet proposes that race plays a significant role in the criticism Meghan receives. “You can’t swing a dead cat without hitting an unrelatable white woman, and none of us have that much of an issue with it,” she observed. “It’s interesting to me that there’s a refusal to acknowledge the role that race plays in our opinion of Meghan.” Commentary in response to Cadet’s article, “Meghan Markle’s show critics don’t think Black girls can be princesses,” echoed these sentiments. One reader wrote, “They truly hate to see us live in softness and it’s rooted in our place in service in their lives.” Another added, “It’s wild to watch folks so irked by her happiness and how she’s normalizing Black women in the domestic sphere.”
Cadet concludes that women of color often face higher standards of achievement to gain public acceptance compared to their white counterparts. However, she notes Meghan may not fully align with either expectation. “There’s lots of mediocre white women who become millionaires and billionaires… who are out there, making bread and homemade fruit snacks for their kids.”
Gender Dynamics and Public Expectation
Societal perceptions often differ based on gender when it comes to ambition and public persona. When men pursue multiple ventures and seek financial success, it is often viewed positively. However, women in similar positions may encounter labels like “ambitious,” “bossy,” or “manipulative” with negative connotations. This dynamic is amplified for women in traditionally feminine archetypes like princesses, expected to embody grace, charity, and quiet poise. Meghan’s departure from these norms and pursuit of independent projects have contributed to public reactions.
Despite negative portrayals, sources familiar with Meghan’s personal life describe a different reality. “I’ve seen Meghan at a happier time in her life, where she’s carefree, and she’s actually really funny — she likes to dance and sing, is kind of a dork in the best way,” one source told Us. “I think she’s between the place of where she feels what people want from her [and] what she knows triggers people to keep herself kind of relevant. I don’t think we’ve ever seen her consistently be herself.”
Kelly McKee Zajfen, a close friend, offers a contrasting perspective. “She shines so brightly in what she is so clearly meant to do, it comes so naturally to her because this is who she is every day,” McKee Zajfen shared. “Making fun projects for the kids, always hosting, being so thoughtful with each guest that walks through the door. Everyone feels like they’re home… It’s a beautiful thing to see someone you love step fully into their light.”
Insiders from Meghan’s Netflix project dispute narratives of diva-like behavior, describing her as decisive but pleasant to work with. “Meghan and Harry are always lovely while filming,” one insider stated. “Meghan is known to have a strong-willed personality and has a clear vision for what she wants. She’s not afraid to voice her opinion, and it was known very early on that she would be running the project and making final decisions. Her and Harry have a lot of creative control, and that was the agreement.”
This assertiveness may explain difficulties within the royal structure, which prioritizes tradition and deference. Meghan’s independent approach, while potentially positive in other contexts, may have clashed with royal expectations. This has solidified a public perception that she struggles to overcome, despite apparent efforts to connect with audiences, as seen in segments of her Netflix show.
Impact on Royal Family Dynamics
Adding to the complex narrative is the perception that Meghan’s influence led to Prince Harry‘s departure from royal life and strained family relationships. The narrative of Meghan as the instigator, leading Harry away from his royal obligations, is prominent in public discussions. However, this may overlook Harry’s own prior sentiments regarding royal life. Royal historian Marlene Koenig suggests, “I think Harry saw her as an exit. I think Harry wanted out for so many different reasons, but he’s still floundering, you know? With the exception of the Invictus Games.”
It is acknowledged that Prince Harry’s relationships with King Charles, Prince William, and other royals have become more distant since his marriage to Meghan. However, the extent of Meghan’s direct influence remains a matter of speculation. “It is the cloud that hangs over her,” notes Andersen. “It will be much smoother sailing for all involved once they can patch things up with the folks back home in England — if they can patch things up.”
Concerns also arise from Meghan and Harry’s continued association with royal titles while pursuing independent ventures. “Meghan has absolutely zero interest in distancing herself from her royal image,” Andersen asserts. “Everything pretty much hinges on the fact that she’s still a princess and Duchess of Sussex.” Meghan’s own statements, such as referring to herself as “Meghan Sussex,” reinforce this connection.
Future Trajectory for the Sussexes
Despite negative media narratives, Meghan Markle’s widespread visibility and engagement remain undeniable. Her projects generate global conversation, she is engaged in profitable ventures, and balances professional pursuits with family life. This raises the question of whether her current position aligns with her intended goals.
Rather than viewing Meghan as redirecting Prince Harry, it is plausible that she is guiding their path while Harry navigates his post-royal purpose.
Holmes proposes, “In the Vanity Fair story, where [insiders] said he’d be happy just doing charity work, that rang true to me. He does seem like he would just be happy doing charity work, but that can’t sustain their lifestyle. He can be driven, much like his mother, to help people and use his position in this world to do good. But if they’re operating on their own, they need to make money.”
Currently, Meghan appears to be the primary income earner, a role that aligns with her professional history. Her transition from princess to entrepreneur may challenge traditional perceptions of royal roles. “The media loves to paint her as polarizing,” a source notes. “The truth is she moves the needle whether people love or hate her. People care about engagement, and she delivers that, even if it’s negative. They want a show that people are talking about.”
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos echoed this view, stating in a March interview, Meghan “is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture.” He added, “When we dropped the trailer for the Harry & Meghan doc series [in 2022], everything on-screen was dissected in the press for days… People are fascinated with Meghan Markle. She and Harry are overly dismissed.”
Contrary to perceptions of scattered efforts, insiders suggest a strategic approach. “They’ve said no to a lot more than people realize. Big-money stuff like unscripted deals that would’ve been clickbait, but that’s not their style. They’re focused on mission-driven, creatively fulfilling projects. It’s about legacy rather than quick wins.”
Cory Shields, formerly of NBC Universal, affirms Meghan’s strategic direction. “I’ve worked alongside some of the most successful executives in the media industry. And Meghan, like them, has a clear vision, understands how to build a brand and embraces the creative process,” Shields told Us. He emphasizes her focus amidst public noise. “She operates with the same level of strategy, discipline and market awareness that defines the most successful entrepreneurs in any industry.”
PR expert Mark Borkowski concurs on Meghan’s calculated approach. “To some, she’s a modern feminist icon; to others, she’s a self-absorbed opportunist,” he told Us. “Neither is fully true, yet both narratives persist because she’s maintained just enough mystery to keep the debate alive. This isn’t an identity crisis; it’s a business model… The more unpredictable she is, the harder she is to pin down. But that same unpredictability is what fuels both devotion and disdain.”
Meinzer believes Meghan has accepted her divisive public image. “There are entire communities [online] dedicated to disparaging her,” she notes. “She’ll never be able to escape it. Even if she’s not a working royal… she is in the history books as part of this institution.”
A potential shift in public perception may emerge from younger demographics. “She has considerable support among the young, even in the U.K.,” royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams observes. “She has a contemporary image, has liberal views and is a person of color.”
Longtime supporter Emily Sorrells believes Meghan serves as a positive example for young women. “The valuable lessons I learned from her many years ago have inspired my life every day since,” Sorrells states. “I used to make all of her recipes from The Tig in my childhood kitchen with my mom and now I am beaming with pride as I scroll through social media and see people posting their recipes and gardens inspired by the show. I was able to celebrate this new era with her at a launch party for the show and I can tell how exciting it is for her to have projects that allow her to connect with and learn from others. I have watched her persevere through the intense scrutiny of recent years and couldn’t be prouder of her for returning to the creative projects she loves despite it all.”
Integrating diverse public perceptions—”radical royal,” “crunchy mom,” and “savvy businesswoman”— into a cohesive image is crucial. “Meghan has to restrain some of those impulses,” Andersen advises. “I think if she adopts a more down-to-earth, self-deprecating attitude — maybe channel a little more Julia Child, who knew how to make fun of her shortcomings — she can still win viewers over.”
With reporting by Travis Cronin, Mikhaila Friel, Christina Garibaldi, Justin Ravitz, Andrea Simpson, Mariel Turner and Amanda Williams