The Duchess of Sussex’s foray into lifestyle programming marks her attempt to redefine her identity post-royalty, but reactions are mixed on whether this rebrand resonates or falls flat.
Meghan Markle's New Show: A Risky Rebrand or a Return to Roots?
Meghan Markle's New Show: A Risky Rebrand or a Return to Roots?
As Meghan Markle readies to launch her lifestyle series, 'With Love,' questions arise about her newly crafted image and its potential impact.
In a move reminiscent of 1950s domestic life, Meghan Markle's new Netflix series, 'With Love,' premieres on January 15. The show’s trailer reveals the Duchess engaged in wholesome activities such as picking flowers, slicing vegetables, baking, and even harvesting honey, paired with moments of affection shared with her husband, Prince Harry. Public relations expert Chloe Franses suggests this new portrayal aligns with the "trad wife" aesthetic trending on social media, which raises questions about Meghan's feminist image crafted during her early years in Hollywood.
Franses argues that this series marks a return to Meghan's earlier lifestyle blogging days, specifically her venture with The Tig, where she shared wellness, relationship advice, and culinary tips before her royal engagement. However, the series has sparked debate amongst experts, with some viewing it as an authentic reflection of Meghan's identity, while others, like media relations specialist Alex Silver, deem it "tone deaf" during a time of pressing global events.
One notable change in this venture is Meghan's apparent separation from her husband in the promotional material, signaling a potential divergence in their professional paths. Marketing professor Pauline Maclaran notes that this could aid in creating individual brands for both Harry and Meghan, which may prove more effective than their previous combined efforts.
Breaking away from royal ties, Meghan's show focuses on lifestyle themes rather than drawing on her royal connections, a pivot that reflects her desire to embrace her pre-royal persona. Comparisons to other lifestyle figures, particularly Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop, indicate Meghan's aspirations to carve out a lucrative niche within this genre.
However, skepticism remains. Critics point out that more pressing social issues could benefit from Meghan’s platform, while her previous ventures with Spotify and Netflix have met with lukewarm reception. The couple's lavish lifestyle raises concerns about maintaining income as they step further into brand independence.
Royal expert Victoria Murphy predicts that while 'With Love' may initially gain viewership, its sustainability hinges on building a lasting audience. Some believe the show will appeal primarily to specific demographics, particularly in the U.S., while skeptics doubt its mass market appeal.
As reactions to the trailer illustrate the polarized public perception of Meghan, the show might only reinforce existing opinions about her. For supporters, the venture is a welcomed return to her roots, while detractors may perceive it as a superficial celebrity endeavor. Meghan's new series instigates a complex dialogue about identity, brand perception, and the intersection of celebrity and genuine engagement in contemporary media.
Franses argues that this series marks a return to Meghan's earlier lifestyle blogging days, specifically her venture with The Tig, where she shared wellness, relationship advice, and culinary tips before her royal engagement. However, the series has sparked debate amongst experts, with some viewing it as an authentic reflection of Meghan's identity, while others, like media relations specialist Alex Silver, deem it "tone deaf" during a time of pressing global events.
One notable change in this venture is Meghan's apparent separation from her husband in the promotional material, signaling a potential divergence in their professional paths. Marketing professor Pauline Maclaran notes that this could aid in creating individual brands for both Harry and Meghan, which may prove more effective than their previous combined efforts.
Breaking away from royal ties, Meghan's show focuses on lifestyle themes rather than drawing on her royal connections, a pivot that reflects her desire to embrace her pre-royal persona. Comparisons to other lifestyle figures, particularly Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop, indicate Meghan's aspirations to carve out a lucrative niche within this genre.
However, skepticism remains. Critics point out that more pressing social issues could benefit from Meghan’s platform, while her previous ventures with Spotify and Netflix have met with lukewarm reception. The couple's lavish lifestyle raises concerns about maintaining income as they step further into brand independence.
Royal expert Victoria Murphy predicts that while 'With Love' may initially gain viewership, its sustainability hinges on building a lasting audience. Some believe the show will appeal primarily to specific demographics, particularly in the U.S., while skeptics doubt its mass market appeal.
As reactions to the trailer illustrate the polarized public perception of Meghan, the show might only reinforce existing opinions about her. For supporters, the venture is a welcomed return to her roots, while detractors may perceive it as a superficial celebrity endeavor. Meghan's new series instigates a complex dialogue about identity, brand perception, and the intersection of celebrity and genuine engagement in contemporary media.
