Meghan and Harry criticized for California 'disaster tourism'
Justine Bateman, star of the series "Family Ties," criticized Meghan Markle and Prince Harry for their visit to California during the wildfires. "They don't live here; they're tourists. Disaster tourists," she wrote on social media.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were seen in Pasadena, where they spoke with volunteers and the city's mayor, Victor Gordo. Justine Bateman posted on X, accusing the couple of exploiting the situation for a "photo op," meaning an opportunity to take pictures or record famous people in unique circumstances.
Additionally, Bateman pointed out that they visited a place unfamiliar to them, which had been affected by a disaster. She called the Sussexes "catastrophe tourists."
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, - wrote the actress on X.
Meanwhile, Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo emphasized in a conversation with Fox 11 that Meghan and Harry were "wonderful people" who lifted the spirits of the rescuers.
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, - he recalled.
The royal couple handed out food packages at an evacuation center in Pasadena. They also met with José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen, which provides meals to fire victims. The couple’s visit was broadcast by FOX LA, where Meghan was mistakenly referred to as "Princess Markle." The couple also offered their home in Montecito to evacuated friends.
The fires in California have killed 24 people and destroyed thousands of buildings. President Joe Biden warned that the death toll could rise.
