Meghan Markle's Festive Netflix Return
In just days, the Duchess of Sussex will make her seasonal return to our screens. The holiday special of Meghan Markle's Netflix show, "With Love, Meghan," is scheduled for release on the streaming platform this Wednesday, 3rd December. This comes after the original series faced harsh criticism from reviewers upon its debut in March.
What to Expect in the Festive Special
The upcoming special promises a hearty dose of holiday cheer. Viewers can expect to see the Duchess engaging in classic Christmas activities, from festive crafts and decorating to baking. In a touching personal moment, Meghan is seen filling red-and-white advent calendars personalised with the names "Archie" and "Lili" for her two children.
The trailer also showcases a roster of celebrity friends joining the fun. Meghan creates crafts with Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka, cooks alongside American chef Tom Colicchio, and makes wreaths with old friends Kelly Zafjen and Lindsay Roth. The preview cuts to scenes of her skipping through a Christmas tree farm and leaving out biscuits and hot chocolate for Santa.
Most notably for royal watchers, Prince Harry makes a brief cameo appearance. The 65-second trailer features a moment where the Duke and Duchess share a kiss in a kitchen. "I love the holiday season," Meghan says in a voiceover. "It’s about finding time to connect with the people we love, embracing traditions, and making new ones."
Business Ventures and Royal Rivalries
The launch of "With Love, Meghan" in March coincided with the unveiling of her lifestyle brand, As Ever, which sells products like raspberry jam and flower sprinkles that she promotes on the show. This venture is part of the Sussexes' broader commercial strategy following their step back as senior working royals.
In 2020, the couple secured a lucrative Netflix contract thought to be worth over $100 million (£74 million). Despite industry rumours, they announced a new "multi-year, first-look deal" with the platform this past August, which Meghan described as "an incredible sign of the strength of our partnership."
However, the special's release is set for a potentially awkward clash. The show drops on the same day the entire Royal Family will be out in force to welcome the German president to Windsor Castle during his state visit to the UK, creating a clear divergence in the public focus for Wednesday.
