Meghan Markle accused of promoting 'domestic goddess' image as Netflix show looms

WATCH NOW: Meghan Markle shares BTS of her new Netflix series

GB News
Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 02/03/2025

- 11:45

Some fans believe the Duchess of Sussex looks like a 'trad wife' in her new programme

Meghan Markle has been dubbed "the millennial Martha Stewart of Montecito" as she promotes a "domestic goddess" image, according to new claims.

The upcoming Netflix show "With Love, Meghan" features the Duchess of Sussex, 43, picking flowers, cooking with friends and showcasing her Californian home.


Despite facing some criticism upon the trailer's release, Netflix expects the show to be a ratings success.

"Everyone's invited to create wonder in every moment," Meghan said in the trailer. Critics were quick to attack the Duchess when the trailer was released.

Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle accused of promoting 'domestic goddess' image as Netflix show looms

Netflix

Some claimed she was flaunting her wealth in a tone-deaf manner. Others accused her of becoming a "trad wife" and betraying feminist principles.

However, Meghan maintains a strong fanbase alongside her detractors.

The show is expected to attract both devoted fans who embrace the "pretty-princess fantasy" and those who may "hate-watch" it, according to the BBC.

This dual appeal could boost viewing figures significantly for Netflix.

Meghan MarkleMeghan's Netflix show is titled 'With Love, Meghan'Netflix

The programme appears designed to showcase an idealised version of domestic life and womanhood.

These women who sell a lifestyle and idealised version of womanhood often provoke complex reactions.

"Of course, the image of the idealised woman has changed over time, and even more rapidly in recent years," Dr Edith Hill, an Australian academic, told the BBC.

"There is no one 'ideal' image of a woman online, as each community and sub-community has their own version of the perfect creator," Dr Hill added.

Meghan MarkleTheir global fame landed the couple with a multi-million dollar Netflix deal, planting the seed for Meghan to one day return to her passion.Netflix
Meghan MarkleThe Californian-based royals broke Netflix records with their debut series, Harry & Meghan, where the couple shared exclusive access to their royal livesNetflix

Nara Smith is perhaps the most well-known version of the modern domestic goddess: the trad wife.

With 11.5 million TikTok followers, she films herself in Texas, raising children and baking from scratch.

She often wears ballgowns while performing domestic tasks in her stunning kitchen.

Dr Hill added: "There is a certain undertone from some of the more traditional creators that does lean toward very stereotypical gender roles and strong religious ideals, that can lead to the oppression of women."