Meghan Markle’s approach to the Sussexes’ Christmas card has sparked criticism, with royal commentator Rupert Bell accusing her of “calling the shots” and creating a card that feels more like a business statement than a festive greeting.
Reports suggest that Meghan played a key role in designing this year’s card, which features the distinctly American greeting, “Happy Holidays.” Bell shared his thoughts during an interview with Talk TV, saying, “The phrase ‘Happy Holidays’ is a very American thing to do, so it would suggest that it was Meghan who had the call on that.”
The card’s minimalist style and professional tone drew further scrutiny from Bell, who described it as looking “almost like a business card.”
He went on to question the Sussexes’ choices, asking, “Why couldn’t they just put one with their family? Just like everybody else?” Comparing the Sussexes’ card to the royal family’s traditions, Bell noted, “The King hasn’t put a picture of him being in Australia.”
Bell expressed skepticism about the couple’s intentions, suggesting the card was designed to keep the Sussexes in the public eye. “They’re just trying to show, ‘Look at us, we’re still relevant,’” he said.
He concluded with a critique of the overall execution, adding, “It’s trying too hard, in my eyes, in what this card says.”
The Sussexes’ holiday greeting has reignited discussions about their branding and public image as they continue to navigate life outside the royal fold. While some view the card as a reflection of their evolving identity, others see it as a calculated effort to maintain visibility in the public sphere.
As the Sussexes forge their path, their choices remain under close scrutiny, highlighting the ongoing challenges of balancing personal expression with public perception.