Meghan Markle praised for ‘easy’ decision as insider makes stance clear
Meghan Markle has been praised for her “easy” decision as an insider made their stance clear on Netflix’s delay.
The Duchess of Sussex postponed the release of her new Netflix series “With Love” due to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
The show, originally scheduled to debut on January 15, will now premiere on March 4, as Meghan focuses on supporting those affected by the fires in her home state.
An industry insider has defended Meghan’s decision to delay the show, telling People it was an “easy” choice driven by genuine concern.
“I don’t think she could imagine putting out a show centred on joy and hosting when so many people in her home state no longer have homes to host people in,” the insider revealed.
The source also addressed critics questioning the duchess’s motives: “I think it’s sad that critics are saying she’s only doing this to avoid the fires overshadowing her show.
“We’re all human, and we’re dealing with a catastrophe.”
The decision to delay the Netflix series came after the duchess and Prince Harry spent Friday volunteering in Pasadena, California, where they assisted victims of the Eaton Fire through food distribution and essential supplies provision.
The couple have also opened their Montecito home to friends and loved ones forced to evacuate amid the blazes.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex dedicated an entire day to their volunteer efforts in Pasadena, working alongside World Central Kitchen, a longtime partner of their Archewell Foundation.
The couple focused on discreetly supporting wildfire relief efforts, hearing stories from affected residents whilst distributing meals and supplies.
They were joined by California’s First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo as they expressed gratitude to first responders, including LA County firefighters and police.
The couple’s office had released a statement on January 9 about ways to support the relief effort, before heading out to help the following day.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo praised the royal couple’s impact during their visit, speaking to Fox News about their meaningful interactions.
“It’s great people, great personalities and great heart for them to come out here and meet with the first responders, meet with the people who were affected,” Gordo said.
The mayor highlighted their visit to the command post at the Rose Bowl, noting the positive reception they received.
“They want to be as helpful as they can be… they took the time to meet the people that are affected and spent time. They’re just very caring people who are very concerned for their friends and neighbours,” he added.
“With Love, Meghan” was filmed in Montecito and celebrates the beauty of Southern California across eight episodes.
The series will showcase the Duchess of Sussex pursuing her passions for cooking, creating and entertaining, whilst welcoming both old and new friends.
In a statement released on January 12, Meghan expressed her appreciation for Netflix’s support of the delay.
“I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California,” she said.