Meghan Markle’s latest venture, a Netflix lifestyle series titled With Love, Meghan, has sparked intense criticism from both audiences and experts alike, with detractors highlighting its failure to deliver authenticity.

Since its release on March 4, With Love, Meghan garnered a mere 33% on Rotten Tomatoes, with criticism focusing on what reviewers allege is Markle's self-centered approach and lack of genuine engagement, as Fox News reports.

The program, aimed at sharing Markel's culinary favorites and hosting insights, saw a host of well-known personalities, such as Mindy Kaling and chef Roy Choi, joining the wife of Britain's Prince Harry. Despite their presence, the series was described as lacking depth.

Critics Call for Shift in Focus

Critic Kinsey Schofield was especially vocal, suggesting Markle could benefit by redirecting attention from herself to her guests.

The series, alleged Schofield, seemed overly focused on Markle's persona rather than cultivating an engaging environment for viewers.

The show's authenticity has been questioned, with both royal photographer Helena Chard and expert Hilary Fordwich echoing the sentiment.

Fordwich likened the show's reception to previous failed Netflix projects by Markle and Prince Harry, labeling them as "tone-deaf," ultimately contributing to the low viewership ratings.

Some Initial Success Despite Backlash

Interestingly, despite the show's lukewarm reception, it managed to achieve a spot on Netflix's Top 10 list shortly after its debut. In response to its quick climb, Markle took to Instagram to celebrate, emphasizing the series' early success.

However, this streaming success was short-lived, as the show eventually dipped to the No. 7 position after initially starting at No. 5. The response from audiences left much to be desired, with an IMDb audience score of just 2.7 out of 10.

High-profile Guests Fail to Quell Critics

Episodes featuring Kaling, who joined for a children's garden event, did little to offset criticism.

A moment in particular went viral when Markle playfully corrected Kaling on how she preferred to be addressed.

Chard remarked on Markle's apparent lack of connection with both viewers and guests, adding that the production came across as "staged" and devoid of spontaneous moments.

She noted that audiences crave genuine interactions rather than carefully curated portrayals.

Disappointment Extends to Broader Endeavors

Experts like Fordwich believed that the low ratings are particularly unfortunate because "Netflix doesn’t invest" to witness such outcomes. Fordwich speculated that Markle may have urged fans to engage with the show to combat what she described as "ghastly ratings."

The series is part of a multiyear deal with Netflix, initiated in 2020, and faced initial delays due to fires in Los Angeles. Despite the turbulent start and critical reception, a second season is slated for the fall.

Audience Demand for Real Connection

The show's future hinges on its ability to pivot and foster more authentic engagements. Critics like Schofield continue to urge Markle to shift emphasis from self-promotion to showcasing her guests’ talents and stories, an approach they believe could rejuvenate the series.

In summary, while With Love, Meghan was initially met with streaming success, widespread criticism of its authenticity and engagement levels continue to dominate the discourse around the show.

The forthcoming season presents an opportunity to address these issues and perhaps reshape public perception.