Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Respond to ‘Disaster Tourist’ Comments

Published on

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are addressing criticism following their efforts to assist victims of the Los Angeles wildfires.

The couple, who were seen distributing food and supplies at the Pasadena Convention Center last Friday, were labeled “disaster tourists” by actress Justine Bateman. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, however, found the remark “offensive,” according to a source close to them.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry feel Justine Bateman’s comments were “offensive.”KCAL News/YouTube

Bateman, best known for her role in Family Ties, made the controversial comment on X (formerly Twitter) over the weekend, accusing Harry and Meghan of exploiting the tragedy for a “photo op.” She wrote, “They don’t live here; they are tourists. Disaster Tourists. #PalisadesFire.”

ADVERTISEMENT

The criticism struck a nerve with the couple. “It’s offensive to Meghan and Harry that anybody would think this is merely a photo opportunity,” the source told Page Six.

Bateman labeled the couple “disaster tourists” via X on Saturday. FilmMagic, Inc

Meghan, 43, was born and raised in Los Angeles, which the source says remains deeply personal to her. “This is, and always will be, home to her,” the insider emphasized. “Her heart is completely broken for all the lives that have been lost and for those whose homes have been destroyed in these fires.”

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped up to help Los Angeles wildfire victims on Friday. AP

The insider also noted that the couple, who live approximately 90 miles north of the city, have “invested significant time and resources” in aiding wildfire victims. They donated money and essential items while dedicating “countless hours to volunteering long before the media even caught wind of their involvement.”

ADVERTISEMENT
Markle was spotted outside the Pasadena Convention Center distributing food and supplies to victims. AP
ADVERTISEMENT

Photos and videos from the event showed Markle speaking with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo and engaging with evacuees. Witnesses described the couple’s involvement as heartfelt and genuine.

“Meghan was born and raised in Los Angeles so this is, and always will be, home to her,” our source says. MediaNews Group via Getty Images

Bateman’s comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with her critique and others defending the couple’s actions. The wildfires, including the devastating Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, have displaced over 150,000 people and burned more than 40,000 acres, leaving communities in desperate need of support.

According to the insider, the couple has “dedicated countless hours to volunteering, long before the media even caught wind of their involvement.” MediaNews Group via Getty Images

Harry and Meghan’s team has yet to issue an official response to Bateman’s remarks, but their actions at the Pasadena Convention Center speak to their ongoing commitment to making a difference during crises.

ADVERTISEMENT
Bateman wrote, “What a repulsive ‘photo op’ they achieved. They are ‘touring the damage’? Are they politicians now?” MediaNews Group via Getty Images
Los Angeles is battling one of the biggest wildfires that have ravaged the county in recent history. AFP via Getty Images
ADVERTISEMENT

Read more Entertainment News.


ADVERTISEMENT