Meghan Markle Faces Mixed Reactions After Delaying Netflix Show Over LA Wildfires
By Favour Adegoke on January 13, 2025 at 2:30 PM EST
Updated on January 13, 2025 at 4:45 PM EST
Meghan Markle has delayed the release of her Netflix series "With Love, Meghan" to focus on wildfire relief in Los Angeles.
Unfortunately, the move has sparked mixed reactions online from the duchess' fans, who have waited a long time for its release.
The move comes after Prince Harry and Meghan, through their Archewell Foundation, donated to wildfire relief efforts and opened their $29 million Montecito home to evacuees.
Meghan Markle Delays Netflix Show Release To Prioritize LA Wildfire Relief
Meghan is now facing backlash after deciding to delay the release of her upcoming Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan," in response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
In a statement to People Magazine, the Duchess expressed gratitude toward Netflix for supporting her decision to prioritize those affected by the fires in her home state.
"I'm thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in California," she said.
Meghan's new cooking show, initially set to premiere on January 15, has now been rescheduled for March 4.
Royal Fans Have Mixed Reactions To The Show's Delay
According to the Daily Mail, Meghan's announcement sparked mixed reactions online. Some critics accused the Duchess of postponing the show to avoid competing for attention.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, "She doesn't want to be overshadowed by anything." Another questioned, "How is the airing of this completed program taking their focus?"
However, many defended Meghan, noting that the royal prioritizes others' needs over her own.
One supporter wrote, "Can the a-sholes who were saying Meghan was just helping to promote her show, please stand up? You don't postpone a show that's so anticipated if you're just helping for promo. Meghan is showing how genuine she is, and y'all will find another thing to criticize."
Another praised the move, saying, "A classy decision by a classy woman. We'll be there March 4 for sure!"
Meghan Markle's Lifestyle Netflix Series Is Reportedly The 'Perfect Revenge For Doubters And Haters'
Meghan's upcoming Netflix series is part of the $100 million deal she and Harry signed with Netflix to create diverse content.
The new lifestyle show will feature Meghan sharing her favorite cooking and gardening tips while hosting well-known friends from California, including actress Mindy Kaling and "Suits" co-star Abigail Spencer.
The first trailer teases scenes of Meghan preparing meals, harvesting fresh produce from her garden, and engaging in casual conversations with various guests.
According to an insider, the eight-episode series, which aims to "reimagine the genre of lifestyle programming," is seen by Meghan as the ideal response to her critics.
"Meghan feels this show will be the perfect revenge for all her doubters and haters," the source told The Mirror. "She is so confident it's going to do well, and she will get the accolades she deserves for it, which will finally shut some people up. She can't wait."
Prince Harry And Meghan Rally Support For Los Angeles Wildfire Victims Through Donations
Amid the wildfire that has devastated Los Angeles in recent days, claiming 16 lives and scorching nearly 14,000 acres of land, Harry and Meghan have stepped in to support relief efforts.
Through their Archewell Foundation, they have made donations to aid those affected.
Earlier this week, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a statement urging others to join the relief efforts.
Posting on their website, Sussex.com, they shared: "In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centers, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life."
The royal couple added: "A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas," as they also provided links to trusted charities they have previously collaborated with, urging their supporters to contribute and assist those in need.
Prince Harry And Meghan Open Their Home To Fire-Displaced Victims
To support displaced victims of the wildfire, Harry and Meghan opened their $29 million Montecito estate to shelter friends and family and also encouraged others to do the same.
"If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do," Harry and Meghan wrote in their statement.
The royal couple also reminded the public to check on elderly and disabled neighbors who might need assistance evacuating.
They highlighted the severe loss many families have faced, stating, "Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children's toys and clothing, and other essentials."
"The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need," Harry and Meghan added.
On Friday, Harry and Meghan visited the Pasadena Convention Center, which serves as an evacuation center for those displaced by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
The couple spent time comforting victims and showing support for first responders working on the front lines. They actively participated in relief efforts by distributing food parcels to individuals and families impacted by the fires.