Meghan Markle accused of taking aim at Kate Middleton with Christmas special clash

Meghan Markle is facing criticism over plans to launch a festive edition of her lifestyle show With Love, Meghan just as Kate Middleton prepares to front her own televised Christmas Carol Special. The timing has sparked fresh claims that the Duchess of Sussex is deliberately clashing with the Princess of Wales.

According to RadarOnline, a source close to the royals did not hold back, branding Meghan’s decision “vicious” and “nasty.” The insider suggested this move has become typical of her, saying: “This is just the type of vicious, nasty move that is coming to define Meghan.”

Royal commentator Hugo Vickers also weighed in, telling The Sun: “It’s always said that whenever Catherine the Princess of Wales starts something that Meghan Markle does something else to cap it, or in some ways clash with it. Maybe that is the case. Obviously, there are lots of Christmas shows around Christmas.”

While Vickers stopped short of calling the move deliberate sabotage, he made it clear he sees a big difference in purpose. He praised Kate’s Westminster Abbey initiative, describing it as “incredibly moving and incredibly special.” He added: “It is done for the benefit of the rest of the world, for all the people who’ve been suffering, all the people who’ve helped with charities, all that sort of thing, so it’s all for the public good.”

Kate’s carol service has become a staple of the royal calendar in recent years, drawing celebrities, charity workers, and frontline staff to the Abbey to celebrate their efforts and offer hope during the festive season. Last year’s event featured readings from familiar faces, heartwarming musical performances, and moving tributes to those giving back to their communities.

Meghan, on the other hand, has been carving out her own path in the entertainment space since stepping away from royal duties. Her upcoming holiday special is expected to feature lifestyle tips, recipes, and her personal take on festive traditions. Supporters of the Duchess argue that she is simply working in her own sphere, focusing on family, wellbeing, and her brand.

But critics insist the timing feels pointed. With both programmes potentially airing around the same time, comparisons are inevitable, fuelling yet another round of speculation about rivalry between the two women.

This is not the first time Meghan has been accused of mirroring or clashing with Kate’s initiatives. Royal watchers often point out overlaps between their projects, from charitable ventures to public appearances, though whether this is coincidence or strategy remains a matter of debate.

As Christmas approaches, viewers will decide for themselves whether Meghan’s special is harmless festive fun or a deliberate swipe at her sister-in-law. One thing is certain: the parallel projects will once again place the spotlight firmly on the strained relationship between the Sussexes and the rest of the Royal Family.