A friend of Meghan Markle revealed a rare detail about Princess Lilibet’s personality while defending the Duchess of Sussex’s new Netflix show, “With Love, Meghan.”
In a lengthy Instagram post shared Sunday, chef Adrian Lipscombe described meeting Markle and “and her well-known significant other,” Prince Harry, while sitting down for a meal.
“We talked about our families (mostly about our daughters being in their princess phase and the movies they love) and, of course, about food,” she wrote, referencing 3-year-old Lilibet.
Lipscombe went on to describe Markle, 43, and Harry, 40, as “some of the most down-to-earth people,” adding, “She didn’t rush the conversation, even though I was taking up her time. She was gracious, engaged, and kind.”
The Texas native’s post was mainly a critique of the negative press surrounding the duchess’s forthcoming lifestyle series and those criticizing “someone or [judging] a TV show before it has even aired.”
Specifically addressing the food website Eater after it published a scathing review of the “With Love, Meghan” trailer last week, Lipscombe wrote, “there was a time we looked to you for thoughtful reporting, a pulse on food trends, and some real insight into the food world. But now? This feels like a step down.”
The restaurant owner asked to “talk about the bigger picture,” which was that “representation is already so scarce, and now, a show that has the potential to spotlight food, culture, and storytelling is being torn apart before it even has a chance.”
“This isn’t just about Meghan Markle. It’s about a systemic issue in media and entertainment that continues to dismiss or belittle efforts by women, especially women of color, to create something meaningful,” she added.
Lipscombe concluded her post by asking the outlet to “consider retracting this piece” and “reflect on the impact of this type of writing.”
“The food world deserves better,” she noted. “Meghan deserves better. And frankly, we all do.”
Markle released the first teaser for “With Love, Meghan” last Thursday, in which she interacted with friends over food and cuddled up to Harry, with whom she also shares 5-year-old son Prince Archie.
“I have been so excited to share this with you! I hope you love the show as much as I loved making it,” she captioned the Instagram announcement one day after making her return to social media.
“Wishing you all a fantastic new year! Thanks to our amazing crew and the team @netflix. Beyond grateful for the support – and fun! As ever, Meghan.”