Meghan Markle Faces Backlash Over Lavish Netflix Lifestyle and Expensive Flower Sprinkles

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, once again finds herself at the center of public scrutiny—but this time, it’s not about royal drama or personal disputes. Instead, the spotlight is on her recent Netflix series and the extravagant lifestyle products she’s chosen to promote. The fallout? Viewers and social media users alike are criticizing the former royal for flaunting wealth that feels out of step with today’s challenging economic realities.

From Royal Rift to Hollywood

Meghan and Prince Harry’s decision to step back from their roles as senior working members of the British Royal Family shook the world in what was dubbed “Megxit.” Their exit to sunny California was met with a mix of support and sharp criticism, especially from royal traditionalists and the tabloid press. Rumors swirled about feuds involving Kate Middleton and even Pippa Middleton—gossip that has followed Meghan since her arrival in the royal fold.

Yet, despite all the gossip and controversies, it’s Meghan’s new career moves that have recently cast a spotlight on her wealth. Her transition from duchess to lifestyle entrepreneur has included developing a range of products tied to a luxurious image, notably, a line of flower sprinkles displayed prominently in her Netflix series, With Love, Meghan.

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The Flower Sprinkles That Sparked Outrage

Perhaps the most talked-about element from Meghan’s Netflix debut isn’t a story, but a product: dried flower petal sprinkles that she enthusiastically claims add “magic” to everyday meals. Meghan revealed at the Time100 Summit in New York City that she sprinkles these delicate petals on everything—from salads to yogurt and even scrambled eggs—in a quest to find joy in small culinary moments.

However, the simplicity of flower petals masks a hefty price tag. A tiny 0.18-ounce tin of these sprinkles, available on Meghan’s As Ever lifestyle site, sells for $15. Considering she suggests adding them liberally to food, purchasing these regularly could become an expensive habit. This has led many to question the practicality and taste of offering a luxury item that many see as a frivolous indulgence.

Social media platforms quickly erupted with sarcastic and critical takes. One user on X commented, “I wish I was as out of touch with reality as she was.” Another summed it up with a bit of humor, “Shortbread cookies + flower sprinkles + high price = Meghan Markle’s As Ever.”

This wave of criticism is emblematic of a larger disconnect between Meghan’s luxury branding and the everyday financial realities facing many. In an era marked by inflation and economic uncertainty, flaunting high-priced lifestyle items risks alienating a wide audience.

A Lavish Wardrobe and Lifestyle Under Fire

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Adding to the backlash is Meghan’s wardrobe in the Netflix episodes—reportedly costing a staggering $172,000. Her fashion choices, combined with the pricey flower sprinkles, paint a picture of opulence that riles viewers. For many, the former royal’s lifestyle promotion comes off as tone-deaf, especially when so many people are tightening their belts.

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The response is a telling reminder of how public figures, even globally admired celebrities, must navigate the delicate balance between self-expression and the public’s perception. While Meghan’s intention with her product and style choices may be to inspire joy and elegance, the timing and pricing have triggered a wave of negative reactions instead.

Shifting Public Perception and the Cost of Luxury

Meghan Markle’s venture into lifestyle entrepreneurship is ambitious and not without its champions. Yet, the recent critique over flower sprinkles and extravagant attire highlights how quickly such projects can backfire if perceived as disconnected from the audience’s realities.

The former royal has always been a polarizing figure—from the glamor of royal life to the grit of Hollywood—and now as a lifestyle brand creator. This latest episode shows the challenges she faces as she molds a new public identity beyond the crown, one that blends luxury with approachability but arguably misses the mark for many.

While some admire her for taking control of her narrative and brand, others see the flashy spending and ‘magic dust’ sprinkles as just another sign of privilege out of touch with today’s world.