Meghan Markle advent calendar sparks social media dispute with priest

A social media controversy has erupted following the release of a luxury advent calendar by Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex. The product, sold through her brand As Ever, is priced at approximately £112 ($148) and features 24 handmade pralines inspired by her Montecito garden.

Anglican priest and university chaplain Daniel French sparked backlash from supporters of the Duchess after suggesting a more affordable alternative on X. French recommended a £5.99 Fairtrade chocolate advent calendar from the Meaningful Chocolate Company, noting that proceeds would benefit the Leprosy Mission.

The suggestion led to intense online criticism, with French receiving hundreds of hostile comments, including being labeled a ‘hater’ and ‘false Christian’. The backlash was significant enough that one priest involved reportedly locked his social media account following the influx of insults.