The postponement of Meghan Markle’s highly anticipated Netflix show has reportedly sparked concerns within Royal circles. The Duchess of Sussex has decided to delay the launch of her cookery programme, ‘With Love, Meghan’, originally set for release this week, due to the catastrophic wildfires ravaging Los Angeles and southern California, where the series was filmed last year.
An insider revealed that Meghan “didn’t have to think twice” about holding off the premiere until March 4 because “we’re dealing with a catastrophe”. In her statement, Meghan expressed her intent to focus on “the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”
Yet, as the Daily Mail’s Richard Eden points out, this move has surprised some Royal insiders, particularly in light of Meghan and Harry’s choice to proceed with their tell-all conversation with Oprah Winfrey while Prince Philip was sick in hospital.
The Duke of Edinburgh passed away four weeks after their interview was broadcasted.
A Royal insider revealed to the publication: “Meghan seemingly didn’t think twice about going ahead with the Oprah interview, did she? ”
Following their bombshell Oprah interview, Meghan and Harry continued to make waves with their controversial Netflix docuseries, where they levelled criticism at the Royal Family and even the Commonwealth. The series aired just three months after the Queen’s passing, despite her being unwell during its production, which struck a chord as the Commonwealth was something she deeply cherished, reports the Mirror.
While some have backed Meghan’s choice to postpone the series, others question her motives, suggesting that the show must go on regardless. PR guru Mayah Riaz commented that Meghan had little option but to delay the release if she wanted to avoid being seen as “tone deaf”.
Riaz stated: “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 series’ postponement was announced shortly after Meghan and Prince Harry were seen embracing locals and talking to emergency personnel at a food distribution centre for those hit by the wildfires on Friday. The couple, who reside in Montecito near Santa Barbara, which is about 90 miles from Los Angeles, are believed to have donated clothes, children’s items, and other essentials to those impacted by the fires.
It’s understood that they also opened their home to friends and family who had to evacuate due to the disaster.