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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been branded “disaster tourists” in search of a “photo op” after they were pictured consoling victims of the catastrophic Los Angeles wildfires.
More than 35,000 acres of land have been destroyed and 24 people have died as a result of the blaze, which has ripped through the region. Several celebrities, including Paris Hilton and When Harry Met Sally star Billy Crystal, have lost their homes.
Justine Bateman, best known for roles in sitcoms Family Ties and Arrested Development, was among those left unimpressed after Meghan and Harry were pictured at Pasadena Convention Centre, which is temporarily being used as an evacuation centre for people who have lost their homes.
In a Fox news broadcast on Friday (10 January), Meghan was filmed wearing a protective mask and baseball cap as she handed out food parcels at a kiosk, and in another moment, she was seen comforting a victim of the wildfires.
Follow live updates on the California fires here
In a post shared on X/Twitter, Bateman took issue with the pair’s appearance in Pasadena, writing: “Meghan Markle and Harry are no better than ambulance chasers. What a repulsive ‘photo op’ they achieved. They are ‘touring the damage’? Are they politicians now? They don’t live here; they are tourists. Disaster Tourists.”
Bateman lives in the Hollywood Hills, which has been affected by the spreading wildfires.
After Prince Harry stepped down from royal duties in 2020, he and Meghan relocated to Montecito, California, where they are currently at risk of having to be evacuated and could face power outages.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo told the broadcaster that the couple had visited anonymously on Friday morning and that their public gratitude for emergency services had “really buoyed the spirits of the first responders” during their visit.
“We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl and people were very happy to see them,” Gordo said, adding that the couple were “great people” with “great personalities”.
The Sussexes were also spotted hugging José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen, which is distributing free hot meals to the public and emergency crews.
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Meghan was also pictured speaking with Mayor Gordo and Doug Goodwin, whose home was destroyed by the Eaton Fire, in Altadena.
According to reports, the duke and duchess have supported their neighbours in need by opening their doors to friends and loved ones affected by the disaster. They also made donations to the relief efforts through their Archewell Foundation, according to People.
A statement posted to their official website on Thursday (January 9) reads: “In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life. A state of emergency has been issued.”
The statement goes on to list a number of organisations that are seeking to support those affected by the fire, including chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, the LA Fire Department Foundation and the Animal Wellness Foundation.
The couple also suggest other ways people may be able to help, including by opening your home.
“If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do,” says the statement. “And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating.”
They also suggest “donating clothing, children’s toys and clothing, and other essentials” to the American Red Cross.
