Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing backlash after a highly publicized visit to a Pasadena evacuation center for victims of the devastating California wildfires. Critics accuse the couple of turning a catastrophe into a self-serving publicity stunt, with cameras rolling as they distributed aid.
Critics slam the couple’s relief efforts
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex traveled nearly 90 miles from their $29.6 million Montecito mansion to comfort victims, meet with officials, and tour the fire-ravaged area. However, their presence sparked outrage, with some accusing them of exploiting the tragedy for personal gain.
Former Family Ties actress Justine Bateman did not hold back, calling their visit a blatant PR move. “What a repulsive ‘photo op’ they achieved,” Bateman, 58, wrote on social media. “They are ‘touring the damage’? Are they politicians now? They don’t live here—they are tourists. Disaster tourists.”
Her sentiments were echoed by several residents who found the visit distasteful. “People are dying, people are losing their homes, their entire lives,” one angry resident said. “In what universe is that something to capitalize on?”
Were Harry and Meghan ‘ambulance chasers’?
The controversy intensified when reports surfaced that Meghan postponed the premiere of her new Netflix lifestyle and cooking show, With Love, Meghan, out of “respect” for the victims. Some critics saw the move as a calculated decision to align her brand with the tragedy, rather than a genuine act of solidarity.
Others questioned why the couple felt compelled to personally visit the disaster zone when donations could have been made discreetly. “They should fire their PR person right now,” another critic fumed. “This just makes them look like ambulance chasers.”
Despite the backlash, supporters of the Sussexes defended their actions, pointing to the substantial donations made through their Archewell Foundation. Reports confirm that the couple provided money, clothing, children’s items, and essentials to displaced families. They also reportedly opened their home to friends and loved ones who lost everything in the fires.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo offered a different perspective, commending the royal couple for uplifting spirits. “People were very happy to see them,” Gordo said. “They want to be as helpful as they can be, and they really just want to be supportive.”
As the debate continues, one question remains: was this an act of genuine compassion or another carefully orchestrated media moment?
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.