Meghan Markle recently launched her new rosé wine, part of her brand As Ever, on July 1, the same date as Princess Diana’s birthday. The timing immediately drew criticism from many online users and also reportedly upset her husband, Prince Harry.

Earlier reports revealed that Harry had concerns about releasing the wine on such a significant date. However, Meghan went ahead with the launch on Tuesday, ignoring the growing backlash. One royal expert even called the move “insensitive.”

Royal Expert Calls the Move "Tone-Deaf"

Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield voiced strong disapproval of Meghan’s decision as reported by Daily Mail. She told the outlet that launching an alcohol brand on the late princess’s birthday felt “inappropriate.”

Schofield stated that Meghan’s decision to promote “an alcoholic product” on Diana’s birthday was “not just tone-deaf,” but also deeply “insensitive.” She linked this to the tragedy of Princess Diana’s death, explaining that the princess died in a car crash caused by a drunk driver. According to Schofield, “that fact alone” should have ruled out any connection between alcohol and Diana’s memory.

A History of Honoring Diana

Despite calling the launch “careless,” Schofield did acknowledge that Meghan has made efforts in the past to honor Princess Diana. She pointed out that Meghan once wore butterfly-shaped gold earrings and a Cartier Tank Française watch that previously belonged to Diana. Reports say that Prince Harry gifted the watch to Meghan.

Still, Schofield criticized Meghan’s approach, saying that promoting a celebrity wine on such a sensitive day overshadows the “trauma” of Diana’s passing. She argued that there were “endless ways” Meghan could have paid tribute to Diana, and launching a wine brand was not the right one.

Prince Harry Allegedly “Devastated”

Sources claimed that Prince Harry did not approve of the timing. According to insider Rob Shuter, Meghan insisted that the launch date was a “pure coincidence” and said it was “too late” to change the schedule. Reports also suggest that Meghan allegedly “brushed him off” when he raised concerns, a reaction that reportedly left Harry feeling “devastated.”