Topline: Meghan Markle’s latest venture, American Riviera Orchard, has encountered significant criticism following its launch. The Duchess of Sussex's new brand, which offers a range of luxury home and kitchen products, including an artisan jam, has faced mockery and negative reviews, leaving Markle reportedly distressed.

Key Facts:

  • Launch: Meghan Markle introduced American Riviera Orchard in March with a video showcasing her Montecito home and kitchen.
  • Products: The brand aims to offer upscale items such as jams, oils, nut butters, home fragrances, and furnishings.
  • Criticism: The initial reception of the brand, particularly the high-priced jam, was largely negative. Royal commentator Tom Quinn noted that Markle was visibly upset by the backlash. “Meghan was in tears when the brand launched and her new jam was widely mocked for being expensive and nothing special,” Quinn told The Mirror.
  • PR Strategy: Markle is planning a major PR push, including appearances on talk shows and interviews with select journalists, to improve her brand’s image and boost sales.

Key Background: American Riviera Orchard was intended to capitalize on Markle’s lifestyle in Montecito, California. The brand’s announcement generated excitement among fans, but the lack of detailed information and the negative reception of its first products led to disappointment.

Quinn highlighted that Markle’s sensitivity to criticism is compounded by her perception of unfair scrutiny of her luxurious lifestyle. “She has reached the point now where she thinks that anything and everything she does will be unfairly criticised,” Quinn added. “Like her husband, she feels that people are unfairly picking on her—she cannot understand why people don’t admire her work.”

Tangent: Markle’s reaction to the brand's reception reflects broader challenges faced by celebrities and public figures in managing their public image. Despite a string of high-profile projects, including Netflix productions and advocacy initiatives, Markle’s ventures continue to draw both intense interest and critique.

Surprising Fact: Tom Quinn revealed that Markle was reportedly in tears over the negative reception of her jam, illustrating the emotional impact of public criticism on her personal and professional life. This reaction underscores the significant pressure faced by high-profile individuals when launching new enterprises.

“She is especially sensitive about any criticism of her luxurious lifestyle in the US—from her point of view this is something to be admired not criticised,” Quinn noted.