Five years after the dramatic entrance and exit known as 'Megxit,' Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, continues to forge her path as a lifestyle entrepreneur and public figure. With the upcoming release of her new podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, experts are pondering whether Meghan can win over a broader audience amidst her dwindling popularity ratings in the UK.

Despite her high viewing figures, particularly in the United States, where her popularity stands at 43% as of January 2025, her appeal in the UK has dropped significantly. A recent YouGov poll revealed that her favorability had plummeted to just 19%, down from 26% the previous year. This stark contrast highlights the complexities of her rebranding journey.

Meghan's recent lifestyle series on Netflix, With Love, Meghan, although a commercial success as the tenth most-watched program globally in its debut week, faced criticism from audiences. A mere 33% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on over 2,500 votes suggests that while many tuned in, few were impressed. The series showcased Meghan upcycling supermarket flowers and creating scented linens, yet it appeared to lack the riveting narrative that viewers sought.

Meghan's foray into the business world with her brand, As Ever, has also attracted criticism. Though her products, such as edible flower petals priced at £11 and £21.50 jars of wildflower honey, quickly sold out, the high prices prompted some to question her vision for the brand. As she prepares to launch her new podcast, Meghan expressed excitement, sharing that she has engaged in candid conversations with inspiring women who have turned their dreams into realities. However, the anticipation surrounding this project raises the question: will it resonate with a skeptical audience?

The impact of 'Megxit' continues to loom over Meghan and Harry's lives. Their departure from royal duties five years ago was marked by a tense atmosphere at the Commonwealth Service. The couple's decision to step back from their royal roles has been scrutinized ever since, particularly considering the media's ongoing fascination with their connection to the royal family. Although Meghan has only returned to the UK twice since their departure, the consequences of their exit have yet to fade.

Observers note that every venture Meghan embarks upon is processed through the 'royal lens.' For instance, the fallout from their controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021 and Prince Harry's memoir, Spare, continues to shape public perception. Public relations experts argue that Meghan's notoriety is inextricably tied to her marriage to Prince Harry, affecting how her projects are perceived.

Despite facing a mixed reception, Meghan's entrepreneurial pursuits have not entirely faltered. Critics such as Tina Brown have described her as possessing an 'unerring instinct for getting it wrong,' suggesting that her lifestyle series arrived at a moment when public sentiment had shifted away from the polished perfection it depicted. British Vogue lamented a lack of authentic connection, remarking that the show was 'high on gloss, low on human connection.'

Interestingly, while her popularity in the UK remains lukewarm, some international responses have been more favorable, celebrating the show's warm and polished tone. This dichotomy reinforces the notion of the 'Marmite effect'—a polarizing reception that can sometimes work to a brand's advantage in a divided media landscape.

Professionals in the field of PR suggest that Meghan's approach to divisiveness could be leveraged for her benefit. Her recent engagement with fans via social media, including a handwritten response to a podcaster expressing concern about her public image, indicates a strategic pivot. This approach showcases her determination to reshape her narrative while embracing humor to counteract negative perceptions.

Outside of her business ventures, Meghan and Harry maintain a relatively private life in Montecito, California. Their family dynamics appear to thrive in the company of close friends, including notable figures like tennis star Serena Williams. Despite their fame, they have reportedly managed to enjoy meals without disturbance, emphasizing their desire for normalcy amidst the chaos.

However, the couple's journey is not without challenges. Allegations of disputes surrounding the charity Sentebale and claims regarding their conduct have surfaced, intertwining Meghan's brand with ongoing narratives about the royal family. As discussions continue about how best to navigate their future, it remains uncertain whether Meghan's next steps will lead to greater acceptance or deeper criticism.

Ultimately, the question remains: can Meghan Markle successfully redefine her brand while disentangling it from her royal heritage? Industry insiders believe that while she has made strides, her future success may hinge on her philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Archewell Foundation. Perhaps it is this path that may ultimately allow her to carve out a meaningful legacy beyond the royal shadows.

As Meghan embarks on her new podcasting journey and navigates the challenges of public perception, the world watches closely—curious about the next chapter for the Duchess of Sussex.