Meghan Markle Responds to Podcaster’s Concerns Over "With Love, Meghan" Release with Handwritten Note
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has reportedly reached out to Amanda Hirsch, the host of the "Not Skinny But Not Fat" podcast, with a handwritten note addressing the podcaster’s expressed concerns about the potential backlash surrounding the release of Markle’s Netflix show, "With Love, Meghan." The gesture follows Hirsch’s public expression of anxiety for the Duchess, shared on Instagram after the show’s trailer received heavy criticism in advance of its debut.
Hirsch, known for her pop culture commentary and celebrity insights, had posted, "You guys, I’m scared for Meghan," reflecting a fear that the Duchess would face significant negativity in response to the lifestyle program. Her anxieties stemmed from a perception that Markle’s public image has been polarizing, leading to intense scrutiny and criticism, regardless of the endeavor.
The episode underscores the complex relationship between celebrities and public perception, particularly in the age of social media where opinions are amplified and readily disseminated.
Two weeks after "With Love, Meghan" premiered on Netflix, Markle responded to Hirsch’s worries with a thoughtful and, according to Hirsch, witty handwritten note. The message, apparently aimed at dispelling concerns and showcasing resilience, read: "Dear Amanda, I heard you were feeling scared. Don’t be! This is the fun part – let’s enjoy it." The note was signed "Meghan."
Hirsch was visibly touched by the gesture, posting about the experience on Instagram. She described her reaction as "beyond shook" and "beyond spiraling." The podcaster admitted to smelling the paper, expressing a desire for her own monogram, and declaring herself "absolutely flabbergasted and obsessed." In a further display of admiration, Hirsch proclaimed, "@meghan, you have a fan for life."
The podcast host revealed that she maintains a collection of letters, but has created a new, dedicated box specifically for "extra special" notes, to house Markle’s correspondence. This demonstrates the impact of Markle’s gesture and the high regard in which Hirsch now holds the Duchess.
Prior to receiving the note, Hirsch had articulated her reservations about "With Love, Meghan," specifically after viewing the trailer. She expressed concern that the show "felt forced," leading her to worry about how it would be received.
"You guys, I’m genuinely concerned for Meghan," Hirsch stated in a video shared on Instagram. "I am not a Meghan hater at all. You know, it feels like a Blake Lively situation, kind of like when people just piled on this woman."
Hirsch further elaborated that she did not harbor any negative feelings towards Markle, explaining, "I don’t hate her like a lot of the world does. I just, I don’t know. Some people are like she’s inauthentic. I get it. And what I’m so scared for her is that this Netflix show will make those claims stronger. From the trailer, it looks like it might be kind of trying to be a Martha Stewart situation. It feels a little forced and the trailer at least doesn’t seem like she’s going to come across as relatable, which I feel like she’ll want to try to be. And I’m just scared for Meghan."
"With Love, Meghan," which launched on March 4th, features Markle alongside her friends and chefs, sharing her favorite recipes and hosting tips. The show, however, has been met with mixed reviews, with some critics labeling it as "cringey" and "inauthentic."
British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard, speaking to Fox News Digital, described the show as "mundane and lacks wow factor." She added, "Meghan seems eager to play the altruistic, kind soul, but it is a tad smarmy. My toes are curling… This is so cringey and not fun at all. It feels too staged, and the tips and tricks are far too basic… Meghan comes across as a modern Stepford Wife."
Despite the criticism, former royal photographer Ian Pelham Turner expressed optimism about Markle’s future with the show. "I feel given a time and space, she will shine with the show," Turner told Fox News Digital. "It is very good filming and a lot of very well-put-together cuisine options."
In the lead-up to the show’s release, Markle gave an interview to People magazine, offering a glimpse into her life in Montecito, California, with Prince Harry and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. "We’re a close-knit family, and I love those moments — putting Lili down for a nap, having lunch together, having sacred time together at the end of the day. Our kitchen is where Mama just cooks for the family, and with a crew of 80-plus people, that’s a lot of people to have in your house!" Markle shared.
Branding expert Doug Eldridge, also speaking to Fox News Digital, suggested that Markle’s increased openness was "the first step in the right direction." He advised, "At this point, Markle needs to keep the main thing, the main thing: her family. Don’t regress, by reverting to the same attempts at victim marketing that failed her in the past."
The show has been renewed for a second season, providing Markle with an opportunity to refine the format and potentially win over critics. As Eldridge noted, "America is a country of second chances, and we love a comeback story. At this point, Markle has a rare opportunity at a complete reset; she’s got the ball, and there’s 10 seconds left on the clock. Take the shot."
The entire scenario, from Hirsch’s initial expression of concern to Markle’s personal response, illustrates the intense scrutiny that celebrities, and particularly members of the Royal Family, face in the public eye. It also speaks to the power of personal connection and the impact a thoughtful gesture can have in mitigating negative perceptions. Whether Markle’s efforts will translate into broader public acceptance remains to be seen, but her response to Hirsch suggests a willingness to engage with criticism and a determination to forge her own path.
