In a recent edition of Harper’s Bazaar, Meghan Markle is at the center of controversy for allegedly exercising significant editorial control over her feature story.
Critics have responded sharply, dubbing the article “brown-nosing fiction disguised as barely-there journalism.”
The article presents Markle’s reflections on her upbringing, where she recalls pretending to be a television host for her companions.
“I always had that personality type—organizing, coordinating, facilitating,” she remarks.
It’s clear that she believes those attributes persist, asserting, “I think I’m probably the same now.”
Markle expresses her distaste for things that feel overly polished, likening it to baking bread, saying, “If you overwork the dough, it’s not going to rise.”
Yet, critics are questioning whether this allure of authenticity truly reflects her narrative.
A former media strategist involved in high-profile celebrity editorials expressed skepticism, stating, “This reads like the world’s most expensive LinkedIn bio.”
They pointed out that either the magazine capitulated to Markle’s demands to edit the story, or the writer is simply enamored with her—or perhaps it was a paid advertorial in disguise.
The profile unfolds with Markle chatting about achieving a 90-day streak on Duolingo, wearing her enthusiasm as a badge of honor.
She confesses to being determined to be “the smart one” in her youth and presents her parenting style as almost academic.
“I’ve made it a study, using books and apps,” she claims, emphasizing her methodical approach.
Her venture, a brand she describes as echoing Goop, named As Ever, is also featured prominently.
Markle connects it to joyful moments spent making jam with her children and states, “I hope they see the value of being brave,” reminiscing about time spent cooking together.
One fashion insider has criticized the article, comparing its tone to a sentimental card written by Markle herself.
They expressed frustration over the seemingly one-dimensional portrayal and lack of depth.
While discussing her marriage to Prince Harry, Markle insists that their relationship is idyllic amidst swirling rumors of separation.
She claims, “No one in the world loves me more than him,” emphasizing the profound support she feels from her husband.
In a rather endearing tone, she refers to him as ‘H’ and describes his perspective on the media as possessing “childlike wonder and playfulness.”
A former aide from the royal circle remarked on the narrative style, suggesting it resembles “fan fiction” written about one’s own marriage.
It raises the question: Is this a genuine reflection, or an overly curated image?
Publishing insiders have weighed in, revealing that the level of control Markle sought for her Vogue feature reached unparalleled heights, akin to what Beyoncé demands.
They argue, however, that Markle lacks the same iconic status and remarked on her insistence for approval over everything—writer, photographer, and layout.
Despite claims of authenticity, an insider suggested that her efforts to direct the content for the Bazaar piece weren’t entirely successful.
An awkward moment is captured where a house manager unnecessarily announces her arrival as “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex” in an empty house, which adds a level of absurdity to the situation