Chef James Stocks Critiques Meghan Markle’s Netflix Series
Meghan Markle’s Netflix series has been perceived as “forced and fake” since its launch, according to British chef Jameson Stocks.
Stocks, 41, recently revealed that he was approached to consult on what he believed was Markle’s show, With Love, Meghan, but declined the offer to avoid being “slammed” for his involvement.
“I was contacted last year by Netflix regarding a lifestyle program. They didn’t provide too many details about the identity of the involved parties, but I had a pretty good idea,” Stocks mentioned during an interview with GB News, as reported by the Daily Mail on Sunday, March 9. “Even if she produced a top-notch program, which I remained skeptical about, I thought I might face backlash for participating.”
The Michelin-starred chef, whose website indicates he serves as an executive producer for food shows and an Executive Chef consultant for various prominent companies, expressed concerns regarding the public’s perception of the show, especially given the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s departure from royal duties.
Us Weekly has reached out to Meghan’s team for a response to Stocks’ comments.
“I didn’t like the concept of demonstrating something to her only for it to come off as forced and fake,” Stocks remarked about Meghan, 43, who married Prince Harry in 2018. (They have two children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3.)
“I would assume Netflix employed two or three consultants — a stylist for her wardrobe and advisors for food ideas. If she’s going to take on a task, she should do it authentically. Given Netflix’s substantial reach, they’re bound to surround her with quality individuals to ensure she presents well. Ultimately, they’re chasing profits,” he elaborated.
Stocks also admitted to having watched With Love, and he was not impressed.
“I genuinely found it to be disappointing. Everything — the music is quite slow and lethargic, which makes it difficult to watch. I think she should consider returning to acting,” he suggested, seemingly alluding to her past role on Suits. “She’s quite good in front of the camera, whether in real life or on screen. People should focus on what they excel at.”
Those involved in the making of Meghan’s lifestyle series, which has already been renewed for a second season, hold differing views.
In an interview with People, published on Saturday, March 8, With Love’s director Michael Steed described Meghan as “friendly” during filming and noted that she created a “comfortable environment” on set.
An anonymous crew member echoed this sentiment, stating that Meghan was “warm,” “approachable,” and “genuine.”
“She ensured everyone felt included, from Netflix executives to our director and every PA on set. No one was overlooked,” the crew member expressed.
Steed pointed out that the duchess is not a professional chef but rather a passionate home cook, and she never pretended otherwise.
“Her cooking is quite impressive. She’s not portraying herself as a chef, but the love for cooking she has is evident,” Steed remarked.
“It truly felt like we were just spending time together, which was the essence of the show,” Meghan shared with People regarding the crew’s involvement in the series. “I’d prepare a recipe and invite everyone to try it, and certain dishes would draw everyone in. I would jokingly say, ‘We’re out of spoons!’ It became a very communal experience, and that’s the spirit of the show.”
With Love showcased Meghan cooking and creating for family and friends, including actresses Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer, as well as chef Roy Choi. Harry, 40, made a brief appearance alongside Meghan’s mother, Doria.
The second season of the series has already been filmed and is set to premiere on the streaming platform this fall.
