Meghan Markle’s new cooking show, With Love, Meghan, has stirred up significant discussion since its launch on March 4, 2025. Hot on the heels of Pamela Anderson’s series, Pamela’s Cooking With Love, the similarities between the two celebrity programs have not gone unnoticed, leading to accusations of copying.
Both shows offer viewers insights not just on cooking but also on the hosts' personal lives and styles. Anderson’s series, filmed at her picturesque farm on Vancouver Island, invites top-tier chefs to cook plant-based dishes, showcasing cozy and rustic scenes inspired by her Pacific Northwest roots. Jesse Fawcett, who co-created Anderson’s show, expressed pride about the production’s distinct approach, stating, "We take pride in planting the first seeds—creating original, distinctive programming... it’s a compliment to see our work with Ms. Anderson resonate so strongly,” he said in comments reported by The Daily Mail.
On the same day, Markle debuted her show, which takes place primarily at her home in California and features celebrity guests. Critics and fans alike quickly pointed out the echoes of Anderson’s format. "I’ve always loved taking something pretty ordinary and elevting it," Markle stated on her show, highlighting her thematic focus on personal storytelling and entertainment.
The release of With Love, Meghan has ignited mixed reactions across social media, with supporters praising Markle’s new venture, but others voicing their concerns over originality. Tweets ranged from outright praise to accusations of plagiarism, noting how the shows evoke similar feelings and themes. One disgruntled fan posted, "Looking forward to watching @pamelaanderson Cooking With Love debut tonight. I'm sure it's going to be a hit for she is at least authentic... Unlike her copycat Meghan Markle." Another commentator expressed their frustration more bluntly, saying, "Pamela Anderson should sue the hell out of Netflix & Meghan Markle! She copied her frame for frame!"
While the feedback has been varied, it’s clear the conversation around both programs is intensifying. With the rise of celebrity cooking shows — from Selena Gomez’s Selena + Chef to Paris Hilton’s Cooking With Paris — the question of originality is prevalent. Critics argue both Anderson and Markle’s shows seem to follow the same formula of inviting well-known friends and chefs to share their culinary skills.
Markle, who stepped back from royal duties with Prince Harry back in 2020, has been accused of closely mirroring Anderson’s series, only weeks after its launch. The growing scrutiny on her cooking show has led to debates about whether Markle can carve out her own space within this trend. Some observers have stated the storyline and aesthetics of both shows tap deeply from the same well of comfort and familiarity, questioning the uniqueness of each.
Even royal commentators have weighed in on this matter. Neil Sean remarked on recent broadcasts, describing Markle’s production as "a frame-for-frame take on Anderson’s concept." Sean noted, “This has elevated Pamela’s show,” hinting at something of silver linings amid the controversy. If anything, the juxtaposition of both celebrity shows has only served to drive attention back to Anderson’s original series, showcasing its charm and authenticity.
Despite the concerns about resemblance and inspiration, what is undeniable is the ever-increasing interest the public holds for celebrity-led culinary adventures. With both shows now available to stream globally — Anderson’s on Prime Video and Markle’s on Netflix — viewers have choices aplenty, but their reception will likely remain under scrutiny.
Anderson has been candid about how fulfilling this project has been for her, saying it’s the first major creative outlet she embraced post-2020, aligning with her desire to express authenticity and creativity without any airs. It looks like both stars are redefining culinary entertainment, albeit under the looming shadow of scrutiny and comparison. Whether fans will appreciate Markle's contribution or drift back to Anderson’s comforting vibes remains to be seen. With each passing episode, both shows continue shaping viewer preferences and conversations, blending celebrity life and food artistry.