Meghan Markle Fans Accused of Harassing British Priests Over Advent Calendar

Two British priests have reportedly faced online harassment from supporters of Meghan Markle, dubbed the "Sussex Squad," after criticizing the Duchess's high-priced advent calendar. The controversy began when Anglican priest Rev. Daniel French commented on Meghan Markle's new "As Ever" holiday offering, a luxury advent calendar priced at $148 and sold in collaboration with chocolatier Compartés.

French suggested an alternative: a $8 Christian advent calendar from the Meaningful Chocolate Company. This option, he noted, features Fairtrade chocolate, a Christmas story, an activity booklet, and supports the Leprosy Mission.

His online post triggered a strong negative reaction from some members of the "Sussex Squad." Critics reportedly called French "evil" and "satan spawn," and accused him of having an "ugly heart for a so-called Christian."

Father Chris Phillips, a priest in southwest London, publicly supported French on the social media platform X. However, Phillips also subsequently faced a barrage of hostile messages, leading him to eventually lock his account and block some of Markle's supporters, according to reports.

One critic allegedly accused the priests of using their platforms to attack Meghan, while another described them as "sorry excuses for Christianity."

The advent calendar is part of Meghan Markle's expanding lifestyle brand, As Ever. The collection also includes a "Hostess Basket" with items like teas, fruit spreads, flower sprinkles, and scented candles. Earlier this year, the brand's holiday offerings were noted for their similarities to products sold by Buckingham Palace.

The Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry returned to the UK with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in August. Since their move back to England, the family has reportedly experienced security concerns, including an incident where their children were temporarily withdrawn from a new school shortly after starting.