Meghan Markle has been slammed for monetising the monarchy after cashing in on her Sussex title, despite claiming she is not an “influencer”. Back in 2018, Meghan tied the knot with Prince Harry and they were both given the titles of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, which they kept despite stepping down as working royals back in 2020. Earlier this week she divided critics when she launched an online shop on Instagram where she approved fashion and beauty products.
On Monday she revealed a ShopMy link account, which is set to earn her millions. Meghan will get paid a commission when each follower purchases items she promotes through the affiliate site. Social media influencers commonly use the business tool and can earn a small fortune by brands.
Meghan, 43, uploaded a story and wrote to her 3million followers: “Many of you have asked, so here you go! A little shopping to start the week. More to come. Link in bio.” This bold move comes just weeks after Meghan told People Magazine she’s “not an influencer” but views herself as a “female founder” and “entrepreneur” instead. PR expert Hayley Knight told the Mail that it is hard to overlook Meghan’s latest venture and not associate it with “standard influencer behaviour”.
She explained: “The Duchess of Sussex has long positioned herself as an advocate, humanitarian, and media entrepreneur, distancing herself from traditional influencer culture.
“Yet, with this latest move, she is embracing a model that is predominantly about monetising and sales,” she continued.
Knight also suggested that her latest social media stun could potentially “cheapen” her personal brand, which would impact her work in “activism and philanthropy”.
The website put a disclaimer that Meghan may earn commission through purchase. Initially, she shared high-end and luxury label designs, including a £1,072 gown, £700 bad and £595 Saint Laurent sandals.
It wasn’t long until the former royal’s moneymaking venture rubbed up people the wrong way, as critics rushed to X to share their thoughts.
One person penned: “Do people need another celebrity selling them things they don’t need at this moment in our country’s financial status? I wish her well!”
I can’t believe she is allowed to get away with monetizing the monarchy,” added another person. While a third wrote: “I have enough cream clothing, but thanks! Plus, I like clothes that aren’t wrinkled and that fit properly.”
She shared this in her story and said: “You’ve asked about my nail polish on ‘With love, Megahn’ – one coat of each, plus a few of my other essentials. Enjoy!”.
However, the following day she listed a new selection which included affordable beauty products and delighted royal onlookers as you can pick up a lip oil for under $9.
One user said: I love it! Cannot wait to try some of these, I have used the Paw Paw ointment for years I cannot believe Meg uses it.”“I just ordered the La Roche-Posay wash as heard such good things,” added a second user.