Meghan Markle’s decision to postpone her new Netflix show has reportedly raised eyebrows in royal circles, and sources claim that it stings even more after a ‘final blow’ to the late Queen
The postponement of Meghan Markle’s eagerly-awaited Netflix show has reportedly caused a stir in royal circles.
The Duchess of Sussex announced that her cookery show, With Love, Meghan would not be dropping on the streaming platform this week due to the devastating wildfires blazing across Los Angeles and southern California, where the show was filmed last year.
One insider said that Meghan “didn’t have to think twice” about pushing back the show’s premiere until March 4 explaining “we’re dealing with a catastrophe”. And in a statement, Meghan said she would be focusing on “the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”
However, according to the Daily Mail’s Richard Eden, the decision to postpone has caused raised eyebrows among friends of the royals – especially given Meghan and Harry’s decision to press ahead with their infamous Oprah Winfrey chat where they railed against the royals – even though the late Prince Philip was ill in hospital. The former Duke of Edinburgh died four weeks after the interview was aired.
And one royal source told the publication: “Meghan seemingly didn’t think twice about going ahead with the Oprah interview, did she?” After the interview, the couple also appeared in their explosive Netflix docuseries, where they again criticised members of the Royal Family and even the Commonwealth. The late Queen, who had died just three months before the series aired and was ill while it was being filmed, was particularly proud of the Commonwealth with the organisation close to her heart.
It comes as many have supported Meghan’s decision to delay the series. However, some critics have hit back questioning her motives for the delay, saying the show must go on.
One PR expert told the Mirror that Meghan would have had no choice but to delay the project if she wanted to avoid being branded “tone deaf”. PR and personal branding expert Mayah Riaz explained: “Given the severity of the wildfires, which have resulted in loss of life and property, proceeding with the show’s original release date could have been perceived as insensitive.
“By postponing the premiere, Meghan acknowledges the gravity of the situation and prioritises the wellbeing of those affected. This decision not only reflects her personal commitment to the community but also enhances her public image as a conscientious and empathetic figure.
“In terms of choice, while Meghan could have proceeded with the original release, doing so might have attracted criticism for being tone-deaf to the ongoing crisis. Delaying the show allows her to avoid potential backlash and demonstrates respect for the affected communities. With regard to potential risks associated with postponing the show, it’s important to consider the context. The delay is relatively short, moving the premiere from January 15 to March 4.”
The delay of the series came days after both Meghan and Prince Harry hugged residents and spoke to emergency crews at a meal distribution site for people affected by the fires on Friday. Harry and Meghan live in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, 90 miles from Los Angeles.
It is believed the couple have donated clothing, children’s items and other essential supplies for people affected by the fires. They also invited friends and loved ones who had been forced to evacuate into their home, it is understood.
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