The Duchess of Sussex finds herself at the centre of renewed controversy as her latest business venture, American Riviera Orchard, faces accusations of leveraging her royal status for commercial advantage.
A Royal Connection Without Royal Responsibility?
Critics argue that Meghan Markle appears to be strategically capitalising on the prestige and global recognition afforded by her position as a former senior royal, while simultaneously distancing herself from the responsibilities and constraints of royal life. This delicate balancing act has drawn scrutiny from royal commentators and the public alike.
The American Riviera Orchard Launch
Meghan's new lifestyle brand made its debut on social media with considerable fanfare, promising to focus on home, garden, and general lifestyle content. The timing and presentation have raised eyebrows among royal watchers, who note the careful curation of aristocratic aesthetics without explicit royal branding.
The Sussex Royal Precedent
This isn't the first time the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have navigated the complex intersection of royalty and commerce. Their initial attempt to trademark "Sussex Royal" following their step back from senior duties sparked similar debates about commercialising royal status.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield articulated the concerns of many critics: "There's an undeniable pattern of wanting the benefits of royal association without the corresponding limitations. The American Riviera Orchard project appears to follow this established blueprint."
The Delicate Dance of Royal Commerce
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between modern entrepreneurial pursuits and traditional royal protocols. While other members of the royal family have engaged in commercial activities, the directness of Meghan's brand-building efforts distinguishes her approach.
Supporters of the Duchess counter that she's simply building a career post-royal life, utilising the skills and network she's developed throughout her professional journey. They argue that the criticism represents a double standard not applied to other public figures pursuing business ventures.
As the American Riviera Orchard brand develops, the debate continues about where to draw the line between personal enterprise and perceived exploitation of royal privilege in the modern monarchy era.
