Meghan Markle has sparked criticism after sending a "thank you" care package to an online super-fan who publicly attacked Princess Kate [1, 2].
The gesture has drawn scrutiny because the recipient has a history of criticizing the royal family, specifically the Princess of Wales and Prince William [1, 2]. Critics suggest that rewarding such behavior may be seen as an endorsement of online trolling directed at the royal house [1].
The gift consisted of a care package featuring products from the brand As Ever [1, 2]. According to reports, the value of the package is approximately $300 U.S., which is roughly AUD $420 [1].
Royal commentator Angela Mollard said the move was a mistake. "She just gets it wrong every other week. This isn't just an ordinary fan," Mollard said [1].
Mollard said the fan in question had previously targeted the royal couple regarding their response to the Prince Andrew issue. "He said William and Kate have zero backbone in the statement they brought out after the former prince Andrew issue," Mollard said [1].
The care package was presented as a gesture of gratitude for the fan's support of the Duchess [1]. However, the intersection of that support with public criticism of other senior royals has led to a social media backlash [1, 2].
“"She just gets it wrong every other week. This isn't just an ordinary fan."”
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between the Duchess of Sussex and the British royal family, where personal gestures of gratitude are interpreted through the lens of a larger public feud. By rewarding a supporter who actively disparages the monarchy, the action is perceived by critics as a strategic or accidental escalation of conflict rather than a simple act of kindness.
