Meghan Markle ‘left in tears’ after ‘unfair criticism’ of her new lifestyle brand

After stepping down from their royal duties and moving to sunny California, the Sussexes have continued to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle.

Harry and Meghan secured a five-year, $100 million production deal with Netflix, which released their documentary, and made deals with Spotify. Harry also published his highly anticipated memoir, “Spare,” which sold an astonishing 1.4 million copies on its first day in the UK, United States, and Canada. “Spare” has been released in 16 different languages worldwide and is expected to be the best-selling book of 2023.

“We always knew this book would fly, but it is exceeding even our most bullish expectations,” said Larry Finlay, managing director of Transworld Penguin Random House.

After being cut off financially from the royal family, Harry and Meghan have worked to maintain their lavish lifestyle. With their various deals, Meghan’s net worth of around $60 million, and the $14 million Princess Diana left Harry, they are managing well.

However, the media group run by Harry and Meghan, Archewell Audio, and streaming giant Spotify announced a mutual end to their multi-million dollar contract, with Spotify allegedly expecting more content from Archewell Studios. Harry and Meghan stated they didn’t like the idea of distributing exclusively through Spotify. Archewell Audio’s mission is “producing programming that uplifts and entertains audiences around the world” and “spotlights diverse perspectives and voices,” aiming to build “community through shared experience, narratives, and values.”

Bill Simmons, Spotify’s head of podcast innovation and monetization, harshly criticized the Sussexes, calling them “grifters” on his podcast.

Despite the failed deal, Harry and Meghan have found other ways to finance their lifestyle. Royal commentator Jane Barr wrote that Meghan wanted to leverage her royal title to become a superstar on the international stage, independent of the crown.

Recently, Meghan introduced a luxurious brand, American Riviera Orchard. The promotional video featured her walking around a beautiful mansion and cooking. The first product, a lemon-filled gift basket containing fresh fruit jam, was sent to 50 of the Duchess’ closest friends, many of whom are celebrities. PR expert Mayah Riaz estimates Meghan could make seven figures within the first month of launching the brand.

The American Riviera Orchard brand will offer oils, home fragrances, kitchen utensils, and homeware. Meghan’s popularity is evident, as her brand’s Instagram page gained hundreds of thousands of followers within the first 24 hours.

However, the public’s reception of American Riviera Orchard has not been entirely positive. According to royal expert Tom Quinn, Meghan was unhappy with the reaction to the brand, with some criticizing the products for being expensive and unremarkable. Harry believes that the public is unfairly targeting his wife, particularly about her luxurious lifestyle, which she views as admirable rather than deserving of criticism.