Meghan Markle’s Latest Netflix Show Underwhelms Expectations as Experts Weigh In

Meghan Markle attempted to impress viewers with her new Netflix series, but the results were less than stellar. The Duchess of Sussex’s long-anticipated lifestyle show titled With Love, Meghan attracted only 526,000 households, as reported by Samba TV, a tech company specializing in audience measurement.

In its premiere week, which includes both live viewing and on-demand streaming over five days, the show’s figures fell far short compared to her previous docuseries Harry & Meghan. That series reached approximately 2.1 million viewers in its initial launch back in 2022.

Critics Weigh in on Markle’s Shift in Content

Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, expressed skepticism about the direction Markle has taken. She suggested that transitioning from the role of a victim to one that resembles the classic homemaker archetype portrayed by Betty Crocker requires a significant confluence of authenticity that Markle currently lacks.

Schofield commented that the audience may have already formed their opinions about Markle and do not wish to change their perceptions. She noted that the interest in Markle is intrinsically tied to her connection to the British royal family, and without that allure, new projects are unlikely to resonate.

The Path from Royalty to Reality Television

With Love, Meghan premiered on March 4 after facing delays due to wildfires in Los Angeles. Critics assert that what the show is missing is the presence of the royal family, which many believe would have added intrigue and depth.

Experts suggest that the true fascination with Netflix content featuring Markle and Prince Harry rests not in their celebrity status but rather in the royal family they distanced themselves from. This perspective contrasts sharply with the view that their narratives can stand alone without royal elements.

Notable Failures in the Streaming Sphere

Recent offerings from the couple have failed to make a significant impact on Netflix’s charts. The documentary titled Live To Lead, produced by the Duke and Duchess, did not manage to reach the platform’s top 10 list. Likewise, their 2023 documentary Heart of Invictus, centered on Harry’s Invictus Games, was similarly overlooked.

British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard shared her insights during an interview. She stressed that both Meghan and Harry do not possess the engaging charisma typically desired for successful entertainment content. She characterized their personalities as bland and suggested that their lack of authenticity may partly explain the poor reception of their shows.

Public Perception and the Future of Meghan’s Brand

Meghan’s persona further complicates the situation. While she seems to thrive in the spotlight, many viewers find her attempts at shaping a new identity unconvincing. The former actress, who gained fame for her role on the legal drama Suits, and her husband stepped back from royal duties in early 2020, citing issues with intrusive media coverage and racial prejudice.

Since their departure, they have freely discussed their experiences in interviews, most notably in Harry’s memoir Spare, where he detailed the shortcomings of the royal institution and tension within his family.

Challenges in Content Creation

Discerning analysts like royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams argue that the disparity between the two series suggests a deeper issue. According to Fitzwilliams, the earlier documentary, Harry & Meghan, offered an intimate and unprecedented look at their lives within the royal sphere, serving as a dramatic counterpoint to the self-indulgence perceived in With Love, Meghan, which he labeled as weak and sentimental.

The stakes may extend beyond viewership numbers. Fitzwilliams warned that Netflix faces consequential decisions regarding the future of Markle’s projects. He asserted that the recent wave of harsh criticism could jeopardize the second season of With Love, Meghan, scheduled for release in the fall. If it does not perform well, it may lead to a reevaluation of their contractual relationship.

Implications for Meghan’s Brand Launch

Amidst the tumultuous reception of her Netflix show, Meghan is poised to launch her lifestyle brand, As Ever, with Netflix as a key partner. The brand is scheduled to take off in the spring, and products are expected to be available in Netflix stores. Fitzwilliams emphasized that the threshold for success will rest on the upcoming season of her show. Sustained viewer interest will be crucial for her brand’s longevity.

Upcoming Ventures in Podcasting

Recently, Meghan announced another venture. Her podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, is set to debut on April 8. The eight-episode series will feature conversations with female entrepreneurs about brand building. However, analysts remain skeptical about the appeal of her latest venture.

Commenting on the podcast announcement, Schofield remarked that capturing audience attention will be tougher than basic culinary skills. She expressed doubt about the podcast’s potential impact, highlighting the skepticism surrounding Markle’s recent projects.

A Turning Point for Meghan Markle

As Meghan traverses this pivotal moment in her public career, the ongoing scrutiny of her endeavors reflects the broader perception of her shift from royalty to a new personal brand. With mixed reviews and uncertain viewer interest, the next chapter for both her and her husband will significantly impact their future in entertainment and beyond. Each new venture, including the upcoming podcast, will be under intense media scrutiny, challenging Meghan to prove that her brand can resonate with an audience that remains skeptical.