Recently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle traveled to Pasadena, California, in order to offer their condolences to those who have been affected by the tragic wildfires in Los Angeles. However, their humane efforts have sparked a swarm of conspiracy theories on the internet.
The pair, who live approximately 90 miles north of Los Angeles, visited with local authorities, including Mayor Victor Gordo, as well as emergency personnel who are working feverishly to put out the Eaton Fire.
During their visit, Meghan, who was wearing a blue Los Angeles baseball cap, and Prince Harry were seen handing food to evacuees and embracing those who had sought sanctuary at the Convention Center. According to Mirror, they also embraced those who had sought refuge at the Convention Center.
However, a number of individuals on X (which was formerly known as Twitter) have made the accusation that the pair staged certain aspects of their visit.
A viral claim suggested that the woman Meghan hugged was actually a staff member. According to the claim, "The part they don't want you to see. The girl that Meghan was hugging is leaving with them, so she's clearly staff."
Another user asked the question: "Why is the 'Fire Victim' leaving with them?" while a third individual proposed that the woman was a volunteer by pointing to the lanyard that she was wearing, but they claimed that it was obvious that she was connected to the couple.
As a response to the criticism, Mayor Gordo backed Prince Harry and Meghan, highlighting the fact that they have good intentions in relation to the situation.
He said, "This is their second visit today. We were here earlier today, and they were serving food, anonymously. No one knew they were serving food, with masks on. They didn't come out here for publicity. They came out here to work."
He also said they reached out to fire victims' families and thanked first responders.
In spite of the accolades that the mayor had bestowed upon them, the Sussexes were subjected to additional criticism, according to Independent, when actress Justine Bateman referred to them as "disaster tourists."
She posted her derision on X, stating, "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."
In addition to their visit, it has been claimed that Prince Harry and Meghan donated some supplies, which included products for children and clothing, to individuals who have been affected by the wildfires. In a statement, they urged the public to help disaster victims. They urged individuals to open their houses to evacuees and to check on neighbors who were vulnerable.
"Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children's toys, and other essentials," they said, drawing attention to the activities of the American Red Cross to assist people who are in need.
Business Times has reached out to Meghan Markle for comments.
