Meghan Markle’s Netflix Show Faces Backlash: 'Cringey' Stepford Wife Vibes, Say Experts

After much anticipation, Meghan Markle’s Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan," has finally premiered, and the reviews are as frosty as a Montecito morning. The eight-episode lifestyle series, which debuted on March 4 after a delay due to Los Angeles fires, has drawn sharp criticism from royal experts who question its authenticity.

Kinsey Schofield, host of the "To Di For Daily" podcast, didn’t hold back, calling Markle’s approach "backwards" and "too controlled, too glossy, too produced." Meanwhile, British broadcaster Helena Chard struggled to find the "wow factor," describing the first 20 minutes as "mundane" and the Duchess as a "modern Stepford Wife." Ouch. For a show promising joy in life’s little things, it sounds like it’s missing the spark.

The Duchess, however, insists the series is less about perfection and more about connection. Viewers are treated to scenes of Markle baking, gardening, and hosting friends at her dreamy Montecito estate. Markle described the show as communal, sharing anecdotes of running out of spoons while guests flocked to her dishes. The tone she aims for is warm and inviting, but some viewers remain unconvinced.

Royal correspondent Neil Sean was particularly skeptical, suggesting Markle’s on-screen tutorials—like rainbow-shaped fruit arrangements and balloon arches—feel staged. "Do I honestly believe she does all of this for her children?" Sean quipped. He also pointed out that Markle’s hesitance in her "own" kitchen was a dead giveaway that the set wasn’t truly hers.

Critics also noted the stiff competition in the lifestyle space. Schofield highlighted TikTok’s dominance with its raw, short-form content, contrasting it with Markle’s polished, long-form production. "This feels like TikTok content stretched out and filmed in full glam," she said. And while Markle offers tips like using beeswax for homemade candles and decorating dishes with "flower sprinkles," audiences might still wonder if they’re watching a lifestyle show or a glorified sales pitch.

To her credit, Markle’s show does steer clear of royal family drama—a relief for many. Instead, it focuses on her life as a hands-on parent and former "Suits" actress. But even with charming moments, like a nod to Beyoncé’s song "COZY" while making pasta, critics remain divided. Sean even questioned whether the production was just a "PR exercise to change public perception."

Despite the backlash, the Duchess seems optimistic about a second season. Whether "With Love, Meghan" becomes a lifestyle empire or just a brief detour in her Hollywood journey remains to be seen. For now, the reviews are clear: if you’re a fan of Meghan Markle, you’ll enjoy this peek into her life. If you’re not, this show likely won’t convert you.