Harry and Meghan are accused of staging videos in which they help people affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles.
The pair have been accused of 'staged' a video of themselves comforting people in affected areas, where they are facing harsh criticism circulating on social media.
How did it all start?
The couple, who are from north Los Angeles, headed to Pasadena last Friday to help people there.
In partnership with Mayor Victor Gordo and local emergency teams, they visited evacuees, distributing aid. Meghan, who was wearing a hat, was captured on video hugging evacuees alongside Harry, in an emotional moment for the pair.
Mayor Victor Gordo praised their involvement, saying: "This is their second visit today. We were here earlier today and they were serving food, anonymously. No one knew they were serving food."
He further explained that the couple personally thanked frontline workers and visited affected families.
How did the speculation start?
However, not all responses were positive. Online speculation quickly arose, with some questioning the authenticity of their visit. A video showing Meghan hugging a woman sparked controversy, with one online commenter claiming:
"The girl Meghan was hugging is leaving with them, so it's clear she's part of their staff."
Another critic pointed out the presence of a TMZ photo in a restricted area, accusing the couple of orchestrating a publicity stunt.
"Then you turn around and see that the TMZ photographer was allowed to follow them into the closed security area, to get the publicity footage."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle show up to the World Central Kitchen in Pasadena where food is being distributed.
— FL-Native (@FL_Native21) January 11, 2025
The mayor says they just wanted to be supportive and took time to meet those who were affected.
They were serving food earlier anonymously, according to the mayor of... pic.twitter.com/yALGudU39E
Adding fuel to the fire, actress Justine Bateman labelled the couple "disaster tourists" on social media, writing:
"Meghan Markle and Harry are no better than ambulance workers. What a disgusting photo shoot they did. They are taking a tour of the damage they caused. Aren't they politicians?"
Despite the criticism, Harry and Meghan's contributions included donations of clothing and items for children and those affected by the fires.
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