Meghan Markle has taken some heat from viewers of With Love, Meghan for the show’s picture-perfect aesthetic. Some viewers feel the series’ polished presentation lacks genuine authenticity and presents a lifestyle unattainable to the average viewer. However, Meghan’s former Suits co-star came to her defense, breaking her silence on the controversy saying, “For years, she has been like this.”
Abigail Spencer opens up on ‘private friendship’ with Meghan Markle
Abigail Spencer appeared in the fifth episode of season one of the Netflix series With Love, Meghan. Titled “Surprise and Delight,” Meghan, Spencer, and their mutual friend Kelly McKee Zajfen prepared a lunch of salt-crusted fish.
Spencer, who normally remains tight-lipped about her friendship with the Duchess of Sussex, discussed their 20-year bond with Hello Magazine. She said, “We have a very private friendship. But I’m glad that we got to share a little bit of it.”
The actor continued, “Meghan is the hostess with the most. Literally, for years she has been like this. But I really was there just to support her and surround her.” Spencer added the Netflix series is Meghan’s “heart” and said she appeared to “have fun and to delight in her and to be a safe space.”
She concluded, “Creating that was very authentic for her. I’ve known her a long time and she was doing all of this many, many years ago. I’m grateful that it came back around.”
When did Meghan Markle and Abigail Spencer meet?
Abigail Spencer and Meghan Markle first met in 2011 on the set of Suits, where they played colleagues and occasional rivals in the USA legal drama. Spencer portrayed Dana “Scottie” Scott, a high-powered lawyer and love interest of Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht), while Markle played Rachel Zane, a paralegal-turned-lawyer.
Though their characters didn’t always see eye to eye, the actresses formed a strong friendship behind the scenes. Their bond extended well beyond Suits and Spencer speaks highly of Meghan, praising her warmth, intelligence, and work ethic.
The actor publicly supported Meghan when the Duchess faced intense media criticism after joining the royal family. She subsequently penned a heartfelt tribute to her friend in a 2018 issue of Harper’s Bazaar and was among the celebrity guests at Meghan and Prince Harry’s royal wedding that same year.
Why is ‘With Love, Meghan’ so controversial?
Meghan Markle’s seemingly perfect Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, has led some to question its authenticity. The lifestyle series, meant to showcase Meghan’s insights into wellness, home living, and cuisine, has been criticized for its overly polished presentation.
Some viewers argue that the show lacks relatability, with The Guardian calling it “toe-curlingly unlovable TV” and critiquing its “vacuous joylessness.” Additionally, rumors of a feud between Markle and Gwyneth Paltrow emerged after fans speculated Paltrow was mocking the show. However, both stars dismissed the rumors, making a public appearance together to emphasize female solidarity, as reported by Page Six.
Despite the backlash, the Netflix series has garnered enough viewership to secure a second season, proving Markle’s brand remains bankable. Whether audiences love or loathe the show, one thing is certain, With Love, Meghan is keeping people talking.
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