Former royal butler Paul Burrell, once a confidant to Princess Diana, has offered a compelling verdict on Meghan Markle’s evolving business ventures, asserting that her recent endeavors are merely the nascent stages of a far grander ambition. His insights provide a unique perspective from someone deeply familiar with the intricate dynamics of royal life and public scrutiny.

The Duchess of Sussex recently ventured into the lifestyle market with her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, an enterprise that includes products like artisanal jams and curated wines. This move signifies Meghan’s strategic pivot towards entrepreneurship, aiming to cultivate a personal brand that transcends her royal affiliation and establishes her as a significant figure in the wellness and luxury consumer space.

Complementing her product line, Meghan also unveiled a new Netflix series, “Harry & Meghan,” which allowed audiences an unprecedented glimpse into her private life with Prince Harry. Such ventures are designed to foster a deeper connection with her audience, offering a curated narrative of her domesticity and creative pursuits, thereby solidifying her public image and marketability.

Burrell, aged 67, expressed his conviction that Meghan’s entrepreneurial spirit knows few bounds, predicting an expansion that could see her influence permeate various sectors beyond her current focus. He envisions a future where her brand extends into diverse areas, potentially encompassing fashion, bespoke jewelry lines, and even a signature fragrance that would allow individuals to literally “smell like her.”

Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Burrell declared, “This is an empire just beginning. Make no mistake, she will go into fashion, into jewellery, maybe have her own perfume.” This bold proclamation underscores his belief in Markle’s astute business acumen and her unwavering determination to forge a powerful global brand presence, positioning her as a formidable force in the celebrity lifestyle industry.

However, Burrell’s observations are not without a note of caution, drawing parallels to Princess Diana’s own experiences with fame. In a prior interview, he warned Markle that while the desire for global recognition might be met, the reality of intense public scrutiny can often be overwhelming, echoing Diana’s early realization that fame comes with significant personal costs.

The former butler also shared deeply personal reflections on his enduring connection with Princess Diana, even after her tragic passing. He recounted how her loss profoundly impacted his life, leading to the disintegration of his marriage and other personal traumas, highlighting the immense void she left in his world and the profound loyalty he still feels towards her memory.

Despite the personal hardships and the cautionary tales he imparts, Burrell maintains a strong spiritual belief that Princess Diana continues to be a guiding presence in his life. He notably recalled an appearance on “Celebrity Help! My House Is Haunted,” where he claimed to receive a comforting message from Diana, affirming her happiness and providing solace to her devoted former aide.