Meghan Markle had a difficult Christmas season last year, as she faced accusations of staging paparazzi photos while out in Montecito, California. The former actress, who moved to the US with her husband Prince Harry and their son Archie, was spotted several times by photographers in the upscale neighbourhood, where they bought a $14.7 million mansion.
However, some royal watchers and critics claimed that the photos were not candid, but rather orchestrated by Meghan herself, who allegedly hired a PR firm to arrange the shots. They pointed out that the photos were taken by the same agency, Backgrid, and that Meghan always looked perfectly styled and posed. They also noted that the photos coincided with the release of the couple’s Spotify and Netflix deals, as well as their Archewell Foundation website.
According to a report by Express, One of the most controversial photos was taken on December 20, when Meghan and Harry were seen walking their dogs and holding hands. The photo was widely circulated in the media, and some praised the couple for their casual and relaxed appearance. However, others slammed them for violating the Covid-19 lockdown rules in California, and for being hypocritical about their privacy claims.
Another photo that sparked backlash was taken on December 22, when Meghan was seen carrying a basket of laundry outside her home. The photo was intended to show that Meghan was a down-to-earth and normal person, who did her own chores. However, many people mocked her for the staged nature of the photo, and for trying to copy her friend and neighbour, Ellen DeGeneres, who had posted a similar photo of herself doing laundry a few days earlier.
Meghan’s critics also accused her of copying other celebrities, such as Oprah Winfrey and Jennifer Aniston, in her choice of clothing and accessories. They claimed that Meghan was trying to fit in with the Hollywood elite, and to distance herself from her royal roots. They also suggested that Meghan was using the photos to boost her image and popularity, ahead of her and Harry’s interview with Oprah, which aired in March this year.
Meghan and Harry have not responded to the allegations of staging the photos, and have continued to live a low-key life in Montecito, where they have befriended several A-list stars, such as Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry. The couple have also welcomed their second child, a daughter named Lilibet Diana, who was born on June 4 this year. They have not released any photos of their newborn yet, and have asked for privacy and respect from the media and the public.
Meghan and Harry have faced a lot of scrutiny and criticism since they decided to step back from their senior royal roles in January 2020, and to pursue a more independent and financially sustainable life in the US. They have also been involved in several legal battles with the British tabloids, over the invasion of their privacy and the publication of false and defamatory stories. The couple have said that they want to use their platform and influence to promote positive change and social justice in the world, and to support causes that are close to their hearts.
