On March 8, 2025, just three days after its debut, Meghan Markle announced that her Netflix series, “With Love, Meghan,” will return for a second season. Despite facing a barrage of negative reviews, the show quickly climbed into Netflix’s top 10, showcasing the Duchess of Sussex’s ability to draw viewers.
Premiering on March 7, the first season of “With Love, Meghan” consists of eight episodes that feature Markle in her California home, where she invites various guests to engage in cooking and home projects. The series aims to glimpse her life post-royalty, blending lifestyle and entertainment elements.
Netflix and Markle confirmed the renewal for a second season through social media posts. In her announcement, Markle expressed her excitement: “Oh, how I love ASMR! If you’re loving Season 1, wait until you see the fun we cooked up in Season 2! Thanks for joining the party, and an endless thanks to the amazing team and crew who helped bring it all to life!” Despite the critical backlash, this enthusiastic message indicates her commitment to the series.
While the show has garnered a significant viewership, it has not escaped criticism. In the UK, the first season received a dismal 28% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, with audience ratings even lower at 18%. Major publications like The Guardian and The Independent gave the series one-star ratings, with the latter describing it as “queasy and exhausting [like a] millennial blog come to life.”
Critics have pointed out that Markle’s performance lacks the charisma and competence of established lifestyle stars like Martha Stewart and Ina Garten. Variety noted that Markle seems unwilling to step outside her comfort zone, which may have contributed to the mixed reviews.
Markle’s reputation has been debated, particularly in the UK, following her departure from royal duties alongside her husband, Prince Harry. The couple’s decision to leave the royal family has led to a divisive perception of Markle, impacting how her projects are received.
Despite the critical reviews, “With Love, Meghan” has secured a spot as Netflix’s No. 7 show in the United States. The series features a variety of guests, including actress-writer Mindy Kaling and celebrity chefs Roy Choi and Alice Waters, who participate in cooking sessions and discussions, adding an element of star power to the show.
As “With Love, Meghan” prepares for its second season, it remains to be seen whether the series can overcome its initial criticism and win over a broader audience. Markle’s journey from a royal family member to a lifestyle influencer continues to captivate viewers, and her ability to adapt and grow in this new role will be crucial for the show’s future success.
