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Sandra Lee Praises Meghan Markle’s Netflix Series Amidst Mixed Reception
Celebrity chef Sandra Lee has voiced her support for Meghan Markle’s Netflix venture, “With Love, Meghan,” a cooking and lifestyle program that has garnered varied reactions. Lee, a well-known figure in the lifestyle space, recently spoke out in defense of the Duchess of Sussex’s show, highlighting its positive aspects during a recent interview.
Lee Surprised by “Unfair” Backlash
Speaking with US Weekly at the New York Women in Film and Television 2025 MUSE Awards, Lee, 58, expressed her surprise regarding the negative responses surrounding Markle’s show. “I was actually surprised about the backlash to the show. It didn’t seem fair,” she stated, emphasizing her perspective as someone with extensive experience in the lifestyle content domain.
Relatability in Lifestyle Programming
“[I’ve been] in the lifestyle space for years. We have mixed relatable and unrepeatable elements [too],” Lee commented, drawing a parallel between her own work and Markle’s series, suggesting that both incorporate a blend of accessible and aspirational content for viewers.
Production Quality and Calm Content Praised
The “Sandra’s Restaurant Remakes” host further lauded “With Love, Meghan,” describing it as “very well done” and “beautifully filmed.” Lee specifically noted the show’s soothing ambiance, stating it offers “[…] calming, serene content.” She even playfully pointed out a shared culinary technique, adding, “[…] and she even used my trick of using a plastic bag as a piping bag for her cake!”
Lee concluded her praise by expressing support for Markle’s endeavors, saying, “I’m happy for her. Her crew is doing a great job.”
Well Wishes for Season Two
Offering encouragement for future episodes, Andrew Cuomo’s former partner wished Markle “good luck” on the anticipated second season of her lifestyle series. “Keep on going, and inspire people to make beautiful things,” Lee encouraged.
“With Love, Meghan” on Netflix
Markle launched “With Love, Meghan” on March 4, marking a significant project under her and Prince Harry’s substantial deal with Netflix. The inaugural season consists of eight episodes, featuring Markle demonstrating her culinary and gardening skills alongside appearances from celebrity friends like Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer.
Mixed Critical Reception
Despite Lee’s positive comments, “With Love, Meghan” has faced a range of critical assessments. Some reviewers have labeled the show as “pointless,” “exhausting,” and “boring,” indicating a less than universally favorable reception.
Viewing Figures Compared
Data from Samba TV indicates that “With Love, Meghan” attracted 526,000 US households within its first five days of availability. For context, the first part of Meghan and Harry’s 2022 docuseries, which chronicled their departure from royal duties, garnered 2.1 million US households in a comparable timeframe, according to Samba TV data.
Markle’s Expanding Lifestyle Brand “As Ever”
In addition to her Netflix show, Markle is venturing into the lifestyle market with her new brand, “As Ever.” The initial product line includes a signature raspberry jam. Netflix also holds a financial interest in Markle’s burgeoning business venture.
Netflix Executive Defends Markle’s Influence
Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, has publicly affirmed his support for their collaboration with Meghan Markle. In a recent interview with Variety, Sarandos asserted that Markle “is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture.” He further commented on public perception, adding, “People are fascinated with Meghan Markle. She and Harry are overly dismissed.”
Broader Netflix Partnership
Markle and Prince Harry’s partnership with Netflix has also included the production of “Heart of Invictus,” a documentary released in August 2023. This film centers on athletes preparing for the Invictus Games, an international sporting event founded by Prince Harry.
Prince Harry also released a Netflix documentary focused on polo in December, although this project, which featured the Duke of Sussex minimally, reportedly received a lukewarm response from critics.