Meghan Markle has reportedly been ‘in tears’ over the harsh criticism her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, has received. The Duchess of Sussex launched the brand earlier this year, starting with a limited release of 50 jars of strawberry jam sent to various celebrities. Despite the strategic use of her celebrity network, the product has faced significant backlash on social media.
Royal fans and critics alike have taken to platforms to mock the venture, with some calling it “ridiculous” and “unoriginal.” The high price point, with speculation that the jars could sell for £200 ($250), has also been a point of contention. Meghan’s brand launch comes amidst ongoing scrutiny and public debate about her post-royal ventures, adding to the pressure she faces.
Stacy Jones, CEO of Hollywood Branded, noted the strategic celebrity endorsements but acknowledged the challenges of relying solely on high-profile connections. Meanwhile, royal experts suggest that the public’s expectations were set too high, leading to disappointment when the product revealed was simply a jar of jam. According to author Tom Quinn, Meghan feels that everything she does is subject to unfair criticism, which has left her feeling emotional and disheartened.
Meghan’s latest venture into the lifestyle market is not her first attempt at branching out beyond her royal duties. Alongside her husband, Prince Harry, she has been involved in numerous projects, including deals with Netflix and Spotify, and the establishment of their nonprofit organization, The Archewell Foundation. These efforts have been part of a broader strategy to build a brand and a sustainable income independent of the British royal family. Despite these successes, the intense scrutiny and frequent criticism have taken a toll on Meghan, who has often found herself at the center of public and media debates.
Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, weighed in on the situation, suggesting that the media’s previous speculation about Meghan’s potential political aspirations may have set unrealistically high expectations for her business ventures. When the reveal was something as simple as a jar of jam, it was inevitably seen as a letdown by many. Schofield’s insights point to the broader challenge Meghan faces in navigating public perception and media narratives. Despite the hurdles, Meghan remains committed to her new brand, hoping that over time, the quality and intent behind her products will shine through and be appreciated by a wider audience.
