Justine Bateman, known for her role in Family Ties, has criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for what she described as a staged “photo op” during their visit to aid victims of the Los Angeles wildfires.
Sharing her thoughts on social media, Bateman reposted a Fox News video showing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex offering support to survivors at a food bank in Pasadena.
Justine Bateman criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after they were seen helping victims of the Los Angeles wildfires
Image credits: Apu Gomes/Getty Images
They are ‘touring the damage’? Are they politicians now? They don’t live here; they are tourists. Disaster tourists. #PalisadesFire,” read one critical comment online.
Harry and Meghan, who reside in Montecito—roughly 90 miles (140 km) from Los Angeles—were seen on January 10 distributing food parcels to wildfire victims at the Pasadena Convention Center, which has been converted into an evacuation center during the crisis.
While at the center, the couple engaged with José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen, which is providing free hot meals to the public and emergency crews, and Victor Gordo, the Mayor of Pasadena, according to The Daily Mail.
Image credits: Larry King
In addition to “anonymously” serving meals to wildfire victims, Harry and Meghan reportedly visited some of the burned-out homes in Pasadena and Altadena, speaking with residents who had lost everything in the fires.
The couple also extended the use of their $29 million Montecito mansion to friends and family forced to evacuate, while donating clothing, children’s items, and essential supplies to those in need.
Mayor Gordo noted that the Sussexes’ presence had a positive impact, sharing that people were “really happy” to see them.
The Sussexes were filmed comforting survivors at a food bank in Pasadena
Image credits: Karwai Tang/WireImage
“They (Harry and Meghan) want to be as helpful as possible and truly aim to be supportive,” he told Fox News LA.
“They took the time to meet with those affected and to connect with them. They’re genuinely compassionate people who care deeply for their friends and neighbors.
“Their presence really lifted the spirits of the first responders. We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl, and the team was genuinely happy to see them.”
When anchor Susan Hirasuna asked, “I saw Meghan Markle stoop down and take the lid off a plastic bin. Do they really want to get hands-on?” the Mayor emphasized that the couple was not there for publicity but to actively contribute, stating they came “to work.”
Image credits: ONSCENE TV
In a statement shared on their Sussex.com website, Harry and Meghan encouraged residents to support those impacted by the wildfires in any way possible.
“If a friend, loved one, or pet needs to evacuate and you can provide them a safe place in your home, please do so,” they urged.
They also highlighted the importance of community care: “Be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.”
Emphasizing the devastation faced by many, they added, “Some families and individuals have lost everything. Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys, and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground assisting those in need.”
The filmmaker referred to their effort as a “photo op” and called them “disaster tourists”
Image credits: KCAL News
Image credits: JustineBateman
The parents, who relocated to Meghan’s home state of California in 2020 after stepping down as working royals, have also contributed donations through their Archewell Foundation, according to The Telegraph.
Justine strongly criticized the government’s response to the wildfires, which, as of this writing, have claimed 24 lives.
The actress-turned-filmmaker expressed frustration, accusing California officials of failing to take sufficient measures to prevent the devastation caused by the fires.
“I’m pretty pissed, and I think a lot of people in Los Angeles are pissed,” she told Fox News on Thursday, January 9.
Read more: Airport Insider Explains Why Tying a Ribbon on Your Luggage Is a Bad Idea
In addition to serving meals, Meghan and Harry donated clothing, essential supplies, and children’s items
Image credits: FOX 11 Los Angeles
Image credits: FOX 11 Los Angeles
If you are going to lead a city or state, your priority must be ensuring that fundamental services like fire and police departments are adequately funded,” she emphasized.
“If you can’t manage these essentials, leave our city. You are failing us, becoming a liability, and causing irreparable harm to people’s lives by neglecting your responsibilities. You didn’t fulfill the role you were entrusted with or the duties taxpayers pay you for.”
Justine further urged officials to “resign out of shame and accountability” for their failures toward the victims.
The wildfires have caused a death toll of 24 as of January 13
Image credits: Eric Thayer/Getty Images
Fierce Santa Ana winds have intensified wildfires in the Los Angeles area, destroying thousands of homes and claiming at least 24 lives. According to the Associated Press, 16 individuals remain unaccounted for.
Among the devastating blazes, the Eaton Fire in Altadena stands out as one of California’s deadliest, with 16 fatalities reported.
Justine insisted that California officials should “resign out of shame and responsibility” for the victims
Image credits: FOX News
Image credits: FOX News
Over 10,000 structures have reportedly been destroyed by the two largest wildfires, the Palisades and Eaton blazes, with the former burning 23,000 acres.
Reactions to the Sussexes’ efforts to assist fire survivors were mixed
