Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is embarking on a new venture as a lifestyle expert with her Netflix series "With Love, Meghan." The show's premiere, initially delayed due to the California wildfires, has sparked comparisons to lifestyle icons Martha Stewart and Nigella Lawson, both of whom successfully navigated public scandals to build thriving brands. However, some royal commentators question whether Markle can achieve similar success.

British broadcaster Helena Chard notes the extensive positive marketing surrounding Markle's series, acknowledging the potential for long-term success in the lifestyle arena. However, Chard expresses doubts about the authenticity of Markle's portrayal, suggesting it feels "inauthentic" and "disempowering," given her strained relationships with family and friends.

The New York Times initially drew the comparison between Markle, Stewart, and Lawson, highlighting how both Stewart and Lawson overcame significant public crises. Stewart rebuilt her empire after serving time for insider trading, while Lawson rebounded from a highly publicized divorce and drug admission. Both women ultimately revitalized their careers.

Chard contrasts Stewart and Lawson's authentic expertise and personalities with Markle's perceived lack thereof, suggesting Markle needs to offer more substance to her show. Before her royal life, Markle ran a lifestyle blog, The Tig, and contributed to a charity cookbook. However, her subsequent public airing of grievances against the royal family, culminating in a tell-all Oprah interview, a Netflix docuseries, and Prince Harry's memoir, has created a different public image.

Celebrity branding expert Doug Eldridge emphasizes the increasing saturation of the lifestyle market, making it more challenging for Markle to establish a unique niche. Royal expert Hilary Fordwich suggests Markle should focus on her own attributes, such as her physique and experience marrying into royalty, for a more authentic brand. However, royal commentator Ian Pelham Turner believes Markle's empathy and connection with people are her strengths, setting her apart from Stewart and Lawson.

"With Love, Meghan" represents Markle's first solo project for Netflix. She also recently launched a lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard.