Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan Markle has navigated the world of business, entertainment, and philanthropy. She forged a path that contrasts sharply with her former royal life. From launching a lifestyle brand to striking multi-million dollar deals with Netflix, Markle pursued a variety of ventures, designing a personal brand.
While some of her projects have received critical acclaim, others have been met with less enthusiasm. Her recent Netflix lifestyle show, With Love, Meghan, has gained a lot of negative criticism, especially from UK critics. However, her shows still managed to catch viewers’ attention. Here is a rundown list of Markle’s key ventures since leaving the royal family.
1. Harry & Meghan Docuseries
In 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle signed a high-paying deal worth $100 million with Netflix, shortly after leaving the royal family. Their first project, the docuseries Harry & Meghan, released in 2022, became Netflix’s most-watched documentary debut, with 81. 6 million hours watched in just four days.
While the series was praised for its intimate look into the couple’s life and struggle, it was heavily criticized for focusing too much on their grievances.
2. Archewell Foundation
Markle and Harry launched their non-profit, Archewell, in 2020. The Foundation focuses on a range of issues including mental health, online bullying, and support for marginalized communities. It has donated substantial sums to causes such as COVID-19 relief and women’s wellness.
Archewell has been one of their more consistent ventures, with a significant contribution and impact. In 2024, it was revealed the foundation received a $5 million donation from an anonymous donor.
3. The Bench
Markle released her debut children’s book, The Bench, in 2021. Inspired by her relationship with Harry and their son, Archie, the book explores the bond between fathers and sons through the eyes of a mother. The book topped the New York Times Best Seller list but received mixed reviews. Critics were less impressed with her writing, although the illustrations by Christian Robinson were widely praised.
4. Archetype
In 2022, Markle launched Archetypes, signing a $20 million deal with Spotify. The podcast explored stereotypes and societal expectations placed on women. The podcast featured interviews with prominent women like Serena Williams and Paris Hilton.
The podcast was well-received initially, topping charts and winning a People’s Choice Award. However, after one season, Markle parted ways with Spotify. She later signed a new deal with Lemonada Media to continue her podcasting journey.
5. American Riviera Orchard / As Ever
In March 2024, Markle unveiled her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which aimed to sell products like yoga mats, jams, and tableware. However, trademark issues prevented the brand from selling well.
Due to trademark complications, Markle rebranded the business as As Ever in February 2025. The rebranding aims to expand beyond just local, Santa Barbara-based products and will focus on cooking, crafting, and gardening— passions she has long pursued. The brand has yet to prove its commercial success but remains an ongoing project for Meghan.
6. Clevr Blends
Markle has invested in a variety of socially conscious brands that align with her personal values. Notable investments include Clevr Blends, a plant-based coffee company. The brand has garnered positive attention, particularly for its focus on ethical practices.
7. With Love, Meghan
Markle’s latest venture, With Love, Meghan released on March 4, 2025, is an eight-episode lifestyle series on Netflix. In it, Markle hosts friends and industry leaders, offering tips on lifestyle, cooking, and baking various dishes. The show also delves into her personal life with Prince Harry and their children, Archie and Lilibet, offering viewers a closer look at their family life in Montecito, California.
While the show was released with much anticipation, critics were less impressed. UK reviews were particularly harsh, with The Guardian calling the show, “so pointless it might be the Sussexes’ last TV show.”
Daily Mail columnist wrote, “so awful it is almost compelling.” The Independent described the show as “feels like a millennial blog come to life,” the TV version of Meghan’s now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig. In the show, Markle was also shown correcting her friend Mindy Kaling, by saying “Sussex,” who addressed her as “Meghan Markle” multiple times, raising many eyebrows among viewers.
Despite the series’ scathing reviews, Netflix did not hesitate to renew the series for a second season. All the while, the show even got good reviews from the US outlets, praising Markle’s return to lifestyle roots.
With Love, Meghan is available to stream on Netflix.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
