//Let Them Eat Sponge Cake: Decoding Meghan Markle’s New Netflix Cooking Show//
From whimsical food arrangements to philosophical musings on imperfection (delivered from a kitchen worth more than most people’s homes), this is Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, reimagining the genre of lifestyle programming. But who, exactly, is this show for? Let’s dig in.
What’s the Show About?
*With Love, Meghan* blends practical cooking tips with casual conversations among friends, celebrities, and presumably anyone lucky enough to receive an invitation to Meghan’s meticulously curated gatherings. The trailer promises “the pursuit of joy,” not perfection, delivered from the cozy expanses of a Nancy Meyers-style farmhouse kitchen.
This isn’t just any kitchen, mind you. According to *Elle Decor*, the Thermador stove seen in the trailer costs anywhere from $12,000 to $16,000. Meghan, dressed in a neutral-toned sweater that could double as the definition of “quiet luxury,” reassures viewers that it’s all about connection, not culinary prowess.
But the food itself? A mix of elaborate yet whimsical dishes like ladybug-inspired caprese toasts and a carrot sliced so delicately it could moonlight as art.
The Beige Aesthetic
Let’s address the (beige) elephant in the room. The show is a masterclass in muted tones: beige sweaters, beige hummus, beige flowers, and even the occasional beige candle. It’s a color palette that whispers sophistication but occasionally veers into monotony.
When asked about her flower arrangements, Meghan explains, “I see what color I gravitate to, and everything goes from there.” Spoiler: It’s beige.
Of course, there are exceptions. A carrot and a three-layer Victoria sponge cake make brief, colorful cameos. Meghan’s beagle, Guy, also makes an appearance, adding to the show’s rustic charm—though even he is kind of beige.
A Culinary Nod to Heritage
In a subtle nod to Prince Harry’s British roots, Meghan includes traditional dishes like Eton mess and Victoria sponge cake. These classics are served to her celebrity guests, including actress Mindy Kaling, who describes the experience as “one of the most glamorous moments of my life.”
Given Kaling’s storied career, including appearances at Met Galas and Oscar parties, this comment feels like hyperbole—or perhaps it’s a testament to the power of a well-made sponge cake.
The Filming Location: A Relatable Touch?
Surprisingly, the show wasn’t filmed at Meghan and Harry’s $14.6 million Montecito estate but at a nearby $8 million home owned by philanthropists Tom and Sherrie Cipolla. Because nothing says “relatable” like downgrading to a slightly less expensive mansion for filming purposes.
Who Is This Show For?
This question has sparked spirited debate online.
- The Fans: Enthusiasts of Meghan’s style and philosophy have expressed excitement. Comments like “She is darling. Just the loveliest. Cannot wait for this,” capture the admiration of her supporters.
- The Skeptics: Others have critiqued the show’s tone-deafness in targeting an audience with ample disposable income and time. As one Reddit user quipped, “What in the Joanna Gaines cosplay is this?”
- Trad Wife Aesthetics Enthusiasts: Those drawn to the homemaker-chic aesthetic but hesitant to go full *Ballerina Farm* may find solace here.
- Netflix: Let’s not forget the streaming giant, which signed a $100 million deal with Meghan and Harry’s Archewell Productions. For Netflix, the show is undoubtedly another play in the content wars, banking on Meghan’s star power to draw in viewers.
Critiques and Controversies
The trailer’s reception has been mixed, with some questioning whether the show truly offers value to the average viewer.
Tone Deafness
Many have pointed out the disconnect between Meghan’s opulent lifestyle and the realities of her audience. The emphasis on high-end aesthetics, from designer kitchens to elaborate food styling, feels out of reach for most.
Elite Classicism
Critics argue the show reinforces class divides, presenting an idealized version of homemaking that only the wealthiest can emulate.
Authenticity
Questions about the authenticity of the setting and messaging have also arisen. For instance, why not film at her own home?
The Pursuit of Joy
Despite its flaws, *With Love, Meghan* does offer a vision of joy, albeit one couched in privilege. Meghan’s message of focusing on connection over perfection resonates, even if the medium through which it’s delivered is unattainable for many.
The show’s emphasis on creating memorable moments—whether through food, décor, or shared experiences—offers inspiration, even if viewers must adapt it to their means.
A Launchpad for Meghan’s Brand?
Speculation abounds that *With Love, Meghan* might be a strategic move to promote Meghan’s lifestyle brand, *American Riviera Orchard*, which launched in 2024 but has yet to deliver products. From jams to nut butters, the brand could benefit from the exposure and alignment with the show’s themes.
*With Love, Meghan* is as much about Meghan Markle as it is about food or lifestyle. It’s an exploration of her philosophy, aesthetic, and celebrity persona, packaged for a global audience. Whether you find it charming, tone-deaf, or somewhere in between, the show is undeniably a reflection of our cultural fascination with celebrity-led lifestyle content. For better or worse, it’s a sponge cake sprinkled with privilege, served with a side of aspiration.
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