In light of the wildfires leaving behind a trail of destruction across Los Angeles, Meghan Markle has reportedly ‘requested’ a delay in the release of her upcoming Netflix series, ‘With Love, Meghan’.

The streaming giant in a post that the eight-part series, originally scheduled for release on Wednesday, January 15, will now premiere on March 4.

In a statement to Tudum, Meghan said, “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.”
The series has been described as a blend of “practical how-to’s and candid conversation.” The series’ trailer that dropped last week, saw Meghan hosting celebrity friends in her kitchen and garden, cooking up some of her favourite meals.

The delay comes at a time when Markle and her husband Prince Harry, have been in the headlines for their efforts in aiding wildfire victims. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were recently seen meeting residents and participating in meal distribution drives for those affected by the fires.

However, criticism quickly followed with many accusing Meghan of seeking to avoid her show being “overshadowed” by the wildfire coverage. One user tweeted, “She doesn’t want to be overshadowed by anything.”

Others drew comparisons to her controversial 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, which aired as Prince Philip was critically ill. A commenter posted, “Meghan Markle 2021: Wouldn’t delay Oprah interview even as Prince Philip lay dying. Meghan Markle 2025: Hastily postpones Netflix series after backlash for crass disaster tourism. We see her!”

Another speculated, “Guessing Netflix postponed it, and Meghan is pretending to be involved in the decision.”

Despite the backlash, Meghan and Prince Harry, who reside in Montecito with their children Archie and Lilibet, have actively supported wildfire victims. Through their Archewell Foundation, the couple has made donations to relief efforts and opened their $29 million home to evacuees.

Earlier this week, the Sussexes issued a public statement encouraging people to support affected communities and check on vulnerable neighbours. Sharing resources on their website, the couple wrote, “In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centers, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life. A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas.”

‘With Love, Meghan’ is now set to premiere on March 4.