Television's flamboyant interior design expert, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, has launched a stinging critique of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, regarding the filming location of her recent Netflix holiday programme. The 60-year-old star took a pointed swipe after learning that Meghan's festive special, 'With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration', was not filmed in her own Montecito mansion.
A Critique of Celebrity Authenticity
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Llewelyn-Bowen did not hold back. He highlighted the apparent contradiction in Meghan's promise to offer viewers an intimate look at life 'at home with Meghan', while actually filming at a property situated miles from her family residence. The revelation had previously surprised fans expecting a personal glimpse into the Sussexes' domestic world.
Teasing his own upcoming 'at home' television project, Laurence drew a direct comparison. 'And unlike La Meghan,' he stated pointedly, 'I would actually film it in my home rather than borrow somebody else's.' This comment underscores a broader debate about authenticity in celebrity-led programming.
Meghan's Defence and a Broader Attack on 'Beige' Luxury
The Duchess had previously explained her decision to People magazine, citing a desire to protect her family's privacy. She described her home as a 'safe haven' and noted that hosting a crew of over 80 people would disrupt the close-knit, sacred family time she cherishes with Prince Harry and their children, Archie and Lilibet. On the show itself, Meghan made little attempt to conceal the location switch, even mentioning needing to bring assembled treats back to her actual house.
Llewelyn-Bowen's criticism, however, extended beyond Meghan. He launched a parallel attack on the interior design ethos of the Kardashian family, describing their homes as an 'achingly empty tundra of beige space'. He expressed bewilderment at modern ultra-wealthy tastes, contrasting them with historical displays of opulence. 'Years ago, if you had wealth, you had gold and you had curtains and you had detail. Now, you know, the Kardashians, they just want to have absolutely nothing. And I think that's rather a weird message,' he mused.
Return to Judging 'House of the Year'
The designer's comments came as he promotes the return of the property series he judges, 'House of the Year' on BBC iPlayer and BBC One Northern Ireland. The first five episodes become available on Monday 5th January, with a grand final scheduled for 9th February. Laurence, who will judge alongside Jane Larmour, James Fairley, and Patricia McGinnis, expressed pride in the series, which showcases Northern Ireland's housing landscape.
He celebrated the current trend towards individuality in home design, a stark contrast to the minimalism he criticised. 'People are letting their ‘freak flag’ fly and are doing things their own way!' he declared, championing personality and creativity over what he perceives as the barren aesthetic of some celebrity abodes.
