Paris, October 24, 2025 — The fashion and royal worlds are in turmoil after Meghan Markle — the Duchess of Sussex — was accused of “staging” a video shot near the site of Princess Diana’s death to promote her new wine brand, As Ever.
The clip, posted on her personal Instagram, shows Meghan’s legs standing next to a shiny black car at the Alma Tunnel, where the tragic accident occurred in 1997. The online community immediately “exploded”, accusing Meghan of disrespecting Diana’s memory and deliberately exploiting the tragedy to gain attention.
A Hollywood source revealed: “You can’t call it a coincidence. The timing, setting and message are all too perfect to be coincidental. Meghan knew exactly what she was doing.”
Markle shared a video of her feet taken near the site of Princess Diana’s accident.
Meanwhile, Meghan’s side denied the accusation, insisting it was just a private moment that was misinterpreted. “It was never her intention to offend Diana,” the rep said. “It was an artistic shot — nothing more.”
Despite the clarification, the damage was widespread. A number of PR experts said it was a “strategic slip” by Meghan, as the video completely overshadowed the positive message of her new $30 Sauvignon Blanc, which is described as “bright and balanced.”
The As Ever brand, once expected to compete with Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop, has been branded with the phrase “offensive PR.” A Los Angeles-based communications expert commented:
“Meghan wanted to create an iconic moment — but instead created a global firestorm of criticism. In the age of social media, one wrong second can destroy a brand.”
Markle has launched the 2024 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc under her As Ever brand.
Netizens were divided, with some saying she was being harshly treated, while others called it a “failed PR move.” The keyword “Meghan Diana video” quickly climbed to the top of global trends, attracting millions of views in just the first 12 hours.
However, close friends say Meghan “will not back down”. She plans to expand As Ever into sparkling wine and luxury lifestyle products, with the ambition to turn the brand into “a symbol of rebirth and independence” after the royal era.
The controversy overshadowed her new wine launch and appearance at Paris Fashion Week.
But the big question remains:
Can Meghan Markle recover from the “Paris shock”, or will this be an indelible stain on her post-royal career?
