Meghan Markle’s timing to launch her latest business venture was severely criticised by a royal expert who claimed the Duchess of Sussex “sees herself as Princess Diana’s heir”.
Prince Harry’s wife soft-launched American Riviera Orchard – a lifestyle brand that’s said to coincide with the launch of a new cooking show on Netflix – earlier this month.
The new brand is expected to see Meghan sell everything from homewares, table linen, crockery, nut butters and jams, as well as pet products, hair care and home fragrances.
The launch took place just hours before Prince William and Prince Harry appeared, in person and digitally, at the Diana Legacy Award in London.
Now royal author Tom Quinn said that Meghan’s timing was no accident as she sees herself like her late mother-in-law and tries to “cash in” on her legacy.
He told the Mirror: “It’s really significant that Meghan‘s new American Riviera Orchard brand was launched on the same date as the Diana award – Meghan has always seen herself as Diana’s heir.
“She sees herself as suffering because of the media, just as she feels Diana suffered, but on this side of the pond at least, there will be a huge amount of criticism that she is just trying to cash in on Diana’s legacy.”
Mr Quinn added that the former Suits actress “just cannot understand” why cashing in from her royal “connections” would be frowned upon.
The Prince of Wales was present at the Science Museum for the event in their late mother’s memory, which was set up to “foster, develop and ensure positive change” in the lives of young people.
William delivered a short speech in which he paid tribute to Princess Diana, saying: “She taught me that everyone has the potential to give something back; that everyone in need deserves a supporting hand in life.”
After he left the ceremony, Harry joined a video call with the winners, thanking them for the “amazing work you guys are doing” and assuring them of their bright futures ahead.
