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.

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.”
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.

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 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.”

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.

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.

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.


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