In recent days, Meghan Markle’s decision not to film her cooking segment in her own kitchen has sparked a wave of criticism and scrutiny. However, this backlash reveals much more about the public’s unhealthy obsession with her private life than it does about her actual choices.

The criticism directed at Meghan is rooted in a misplaced sense of entitlement. Some viewers seemed to expect a reality show-style experience, complete with glimpses of her personal life and home. Instead, they were met with a polished lifestyle segment filmed outside her own kitchen—prompting disappointment and even anger from some corners of the internet. This reaction exposes a deeper issue: the perception that celebrities, particularly those who are often the targets of public harassment, owe the world access to their private lives.

One key aspect that critics seem to ignore is the practical reality of filming. As several commenters have pointed out, having a production crew of 40 to 80 people invade one’s home is both impractical and intrusive. Meghan’s decision to film elsewhere is, in part, a protective measure for her family’s privacy and safety. Furthermore, many professional chefs and public figures also use set kitchens specifically designed for filming. Julia Child, for instance, used a modified kitchen that balanced functionality for cooking with optimal space for camera crews. The suggestion that Meghan should be an exception to this standard reflects an unrealistic and unfair expectation.

Moreover, if Meghan had chosen to film in her own kitchen, critics would likely have found fault with that choice as well. Some would accuse her of endangering her children by exposing her home’s layout. Others would claim she was showing off her wealth or using her family as props. It’s a classic example of a no-win situation, where detractors would twist any choice she made to fit their narrative of her.

It’s also essential to recognize the racial undertones present in the commentary. As one commenter pointed out, much of the criticism directed at Meghan would likely not be aimed at a white woman in a similar position. The harsh judgment Meghan faces is not only disproportionate but also shaped by biases and prejudices that continue to pervade public discourse.

Ultimately, Meghan Markle’s decision to preserve her privacy should be respected, not condemned. The obsession with gaining access to her home speaks to a broader societal issue where boundaries are often disrespected in the pursuit of entertainment. Meghan’s choice to set those boundaries is a powerful assertion of her agency, and it sends a clear message: privacy is not a privilege; it’s a right.

By choosing not to film in her own kitchen, Meghan has effectively drawn a line between her public and private life—a line that everyone, regardless of status or fame, deserves to have respected.