Introduction

As the Duchess of Sussex celebrates five years since her exit from royal duties, she stands at an intriguing crossroad. Despite having launched a new lifestyle brand and gearing up for the launch of a fresh podcast, Meghan Markle’s popularity seems to be dwindling, particularly in the UK where her approval rating has plummeted to just 19% in early 2025, a stark drop from last year’s 26%. In contrast, she enjoys greater favor in the United States, where her rating sits at 43%.

Recent Ventures and Controversies

Meghan's recent ventures have sparked debate. Her Netflix lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, aimed at showcasing upcycling and home tips, achieved notable global viewership numbers but faced criticism online, eliciting a mere 33% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Meanwhile, her new brand, As Ever, which offers upscale products like edible flower petals and artisanal honey, sold out within a day but was scrutinized for its high prices and lack of direction.

Upcoming Podcast

In just a few hours, Meghan will debut her podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder. In her promotional material, she exclaims excitement over candid conversations with inspiring women. Yet, fans and critics alike are left wondering if her new endeavors can win over the skeptics who remain critical of her royal lineage and past controversies, such as her explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Reflections on Royal Life

Reflecting on the past, it's been five tumultuous years since Meghan and Prince Harry stepped away from royal life, a decision that continues to cast a shadow on their current endeavors. While they strive for a more independent identity, many observers argue that every new project is inevitably filtered through the lens of their royal history.

Public Perception and PR

Public relations experts suggest that Meghan's divisiveness is, paradoxically, a double-edged sword. While her polarizing presence may distance some audiences, it also cultivates a dedicated fanbase. Instances of celebrity backlash—such as her quirky yet cheeky response to potential controversies—may help her retain relevance as she navigates her path as a businesswoman.

Life in Montecito

Far from the public eye, life for the Sussexes in Montecito, California, has been marked by efforts to maintain a low profile while nurturing relationships within their community and with friends like Serena Williams. However, challenges persist and have reverberated beyond their domestic escapade. Recent disputes concerning Prince Harry's charity, Sentebale, hint at ongoing complications tied to their past.

Future Prospects

Despite criticism and the burden of their royal connections, there are still whispers of potential success ahead for Meghan and Harry as they focus on carving out a niche for their personal brand. Their trajectory may depend on their ability to redefine themselves beyond royal notoriety, leaning into philanthropy to affect meaningful change through their Archewell Foundation.

Conclusion

Ultimately, while Meghan's future moves will likely continue to incite both support and backlash, one thing is clear: the journey to respect and admiration is a convoluted one, but it's far from over. As veteran royal journalists suggest, time—and a well-devised plan—could rewrite Meghan's narrative from divisive to a symbol of positive transformation.