Doria Ragland recently spoke out about the intense criticism her daughter has received over her Netflix show, which faced skepticism from detractors right from the start.
The Duchess of Sussex and her mother, Doria Ragland, sat down for a joint interview with The New York Times, published on April 2, 2025. During their candid discussion, they addressed the backlash Meghan Markle has encountered over her lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan—a show that sparked controversy even before its official release.
The conversation touched on themes such as public perception, online discourse, and the emotional strain of constant scrutiny. One of the most striking moments was the Duchess’ mother’s brief but pointed remark—especially a line that directly addressed public criticism of the series.
The show presents a polished glimpse into Meghan’s carefully crafted world, filled with cozy visuals and warm domestic scenes. She’s depicted baking, setting up tea parties, and welcoming friends in what seems like a naturally inviting kitchen—though in reality, it was a staged set in a nearby home.
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While truffle popcorn and balloon arches might appear harmless to many, they unexpectedly became the focus of sharp mockery. Once the episodes were released, critics wasted no time in voicing their displeasure. Some described the content as excessively “saccharine” or shallow, claiming the Duchess seemed disconnected from reality.
Others challenged the feminist message behind the series, drawing comparisons to influencers like Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm, who have idealized traditional domestic roles—such as making breakfast or tending to chickens.
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The suggestion was that Meghan—whether intentionally or not—was idealizing a time period that many believe should stay in the past. That said, there were parts of the show that felt more authentic and down-to-earth.
For instance, Meghan was seen learning from renowned culinary figures like Alice Waters and Roy Choi, presenting her more as an eager learner than a seasoned pro.
Even in episodes where she was front and center — whether it was tying bows on gift bags filled with peanut-butter-stuffed pretzels or showing her friends how to make pasta salad — the internet wasn’t always kind. While the series aimed to foster warmth and connection, it often ended up as material for online ridicule.
One detail especially sparked intense debate: Meghan’s brightly colored Le Creuset pots. Critics labeled them as symbols of elitism, arguing they felt out of touch with everyday viewers — especially Black women.
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The criticism hit hard — but it unexpectedly ignited a strong sense of unity. In a calm yet impactful show of support, Black women started posting their own photos and stories online, proudly showcasing their beloved Le Creuset collections.
For them, it wasn’t merely about fancy cookware — it was a statement of independence, self-expression, and a refusal to accept the idea that elegance or sophistication should be limited or dictated by others.
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Journalist Michele Norris stepped in to support Meghan, writing, “Why is anyone surprised or disturbed that she would have beautiful color coordinated cookware? Does anyone drag Ina or Martha for their cookware?”
She also pointed out how every on-camera setting is inherently staged. “Every set is a performative kitchen,” the journalist said in an interview, adding, “I think she manages to present an authentic version of herself within that artificial space. What’s so bad about someone wanting to share their joy?”
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When the topic of the cookware controversy was brought up during The Times interview, Meghan looked genuinely perplexed. “This is a thing, in 2025?” she asked, raising her hands in disbelief before turning to her mom.
A simple response from her mother perfectly captured the moment’s essence and the weariness that comes with living constantly in the public eye. “Everyone is coming in hot these days,” she replied. That line not only summed up the internet’s quick temper but also highlighted the solid support Meghan has behind her.
Instead of falling into a defensive argument, the conversation between mother and daughter shifted to more casual topics. They chatted about everyday things—like whether air fryers are really a must-have, how immersion blenders create the perfect soup, and whether Grandma Jeanette used dried or fresh apples in her hand pies.
It was a quiet yet meaningful reminder that, despite the chaos around them, life at home continues—one simple, comforting moment at a time.
Nonetheless, the choice to step back into the public eye — particularly in such a carefully crafted, personal manner — left many wondering: Why would someone who has faced so much criticism willingly step back into the spotlight?
For Meghan Markle, the reasons are complex. A practical one is related to business. Her and Prince Harry’s production deal with Netflix, signed in 2020, is set to end this year.
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After several of their previous projects, including documentaries about polo and the Invictus Games, failing to meet expectations, there’s a lot of pressure on their upcoming ventures to succeed.
However, despite any past missteps, Netflix is still backing Meghan’s potential. The streaming platform has already approved a second season of “With Love, Meghan,” and has also invested in her broader lifestyle brand, As Ever — a clear indication that they’re placing a major bet on her long-term vision.
Beyond the strategic and contractual commitments, there’s a deeply personal reason behind her return to creative work. “I need to work, and I love to work,” Meghan openly shared, looking back on her life before becoming part of the royal family.
She mentioned that before meeting Harry, she had never been without a job since she was 13. For Meghan, work is more than just a duty — it’s a way to stay connected, a means to ground her sense of identity, and a channel for her creativity.