Meghan Markle’s Lifestyle Brand Faces Setback Amid ‘Bullying’ Allegations
Meghan Markle’s new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, has encountered a potential setback due to renewed allegations of bullying during her time as a member of the royal family.
Former palace aide Samantha Cohen has confirmed that she was questioned about Markle’s alleged behavior, along with several other staffers. These allegations stemmed from a 2020 file compiled by communications secretary Jason Knauf, which documented accusations from three female staffers.
Despite Harry and Markle’s denial of the allegations at the time, the recent resurgence has prompted concerns about the potential impact on the brand’s reputation. Business development consultant Hilary Fordwich has cautioned that the allegations, if proven true, could seriously damage the brand’s image.
Cohen, who resigned from her role in 2018, has compared working with Markle to “working with teenagers.” She has further stated that she stayed in her position longer than planned due to difficulties in finding a replacement and the subsequent departure of her replacement during a tour of Africa with Prince Harry and Markle.
The allegations have once again brought the issue of “bullying” within the palace into the limelight. It remains to be seen how these claims will affect the launch and potential success of American Riviera Orchard, which currently only has a static website requesting visitors to provide their email for updates.
The brand’s website states that it is “By Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex,” and it is unclear whether the products will be available for sale in Harry’s home country. The allegations have certainly cast a shadow over the brand’s launch, and its future remains uncertain.
