Prince Harry and Meghan Markle hit back at 'disaster tourist' claims
Share:
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's reaction to being branded 'disaster tourists' after being pictured hugging victims of the Los Angeles fires has been revealed by an insider. As the devastating blazes have spread across southern California, the Sussexes were seen hugging people and speaking to emergency crews at the Pasadena Community Centre in Los Angeles. The couple also met Victor Gordo, mayor of Pasadena, and in the footage, they are seen speaking to World Central Kitchen (WCK) founder chef Jose Andres, as well as embracing victims and volunteers.
It led to actress Justine Bateman slamming the couple for a "repulsive photo op" in a scathing statement on X. She added: "They are "touring the damage"? Are they politicians now? They don't live here; they are tourists. Disaster Tourists.". However, a source told Page Six that Harry and Meghan feel the actress's comments were 'offensive' They explained: "It’s offensive to Meghan and Harry that anybody would think this is merely a photo opportunity.".
Harry and Meghan live in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, some 90 miles from Los Angeles. But the source added: "Meghan was born and raised in Los Angeles, so this is, and always will be, home to her." They also added that the duchess was 'not a tourist' and that "her heart is completely broken for all the lives that have been lost and for those whose homes have been destroyed in these fires.".
Mayor Gordo also praised the pair, saying they were keen to provide any support they could. The mayor said they were "great people" with "great personalities." He added, "They really buoyed the spirits of the first responders. We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl, and people were very happy to see them.".
