The Duchess of Sussex has unveiled the trailer for her highly anticipated Christmas special on Netflix, titled 'With Love, Meghan', sparking both admiration and criticism for its portrayal of the holiday season.
A Festive Affair Unveiled
In the newly released promotional footage, Meghan Markle embraces the Christmas spirit with carefully curated scenes of domestic bliss. The trailer shows the Duchess skipping through a Christmas tree field in casual jeans and a jumper, selecting the perfect tree while gushing about her love for the holiday season.
The production features multiple intimate moments with Prince Harry, including a scene where the couple share a kiss while Harry appears to be spooning cereal. The Duke gives the impression of someone pleasantly surprised to find himself in a kitchen transformed by festive preparations.
Traditions and Commercial Undertones
Meghan's narration emphasises the deeper meaning of Christmas, stating: 'It's about finding time to connect with the people we love' and 'embracing traditions... and making new ones.' The footage showcases wreath-making, cookie decorating, and festive gatherings with friends.
Among the notable participants is tennis star Naomi Osaka, who appears slightly nervous while admiring what appears to be a wreath constructed from broccoli and radishes. The scenes capture groups of friends laughing, pulling crackers, and celebrating together.
The trailer concludes with a prominent display of three pots of Meghan's 'As Ever' jam, priced at £27 each, positioned as potential Christmas gifts. Personalised elements for children Archie and Lilibet feature throughout, including customised Santa mugs and hand-painted snowflake cookies.
Timing and Royal Implications
The trailer's release timing has raised eyebrows among royal commentators, coinciding with the Prince and Princess of Wales' appearance at the Royal Variety Show at the Royal Albert Hall. This scheduling has prompted speculation about potential competition between the two royal couples.
Meghan's approach to hosting receives particular attention in the trailer, where she states: 'Being a hostess or a host – it's about making people feel comfortable.' This declaration comes from a woman whose own ability to create comfortable social situations has frequently been questioned in media coverage.
The overall production presents a carefully manufactured version of festive cheer, complete with what critics might describe as every Christmas cliché imaginable. Yet it undeniably showcases the Sussexes' vision for their new media enterprise and their approach to holiday celebrations away from traditional royal constraints.
