Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, made an unannounced visit to the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday to support evacuees, volunteers, and first responders affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
During their visit, the couple served food alongside World Central Kitchen (WCK) volunteers, a partner of their Archewell Foundation, and offered comfort to evacuees and emergency personnel. Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo praised their efforts, stating, “They came out here to work,” and noted that they initially worked anonymously while wearing face masks. “They didn’t come out here for publicity,” Gordo added, highlighting that the couple also toured affected neighborhoods and personally thanked first responders.
Despite their low-profile approach, their visit has sparked mixed reactions. While supporters commend their involvement for raising awareness about the crisis and the importance of relief efforts, critics on social media have suggested that the viral videos and media coverage surrounding their visit point to a publicity stunt.
Watch as Meghan Markle could care less about this woman’s story & walks off mid conversation like the hunchback gremlin she is looking for her next photo op moment
This woman’s story is too boring for Meghan to be interested in pic.twitter.com/TmpjhJ1OUi
— MeghansMole©️ (@MeghansMole) January 11, 2025
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, always willing to exploit a tragedy to promote themselves. It’s disgusting. And her and Harry’s attempts to still act like royals is appalling. They are merely two nitwit celebrities with a failing brand, and yet the mayor of Pasadena and Gavin… pic.twitter.com/2U9UCC9I7F
— Royal News Network (@RNN_RoyalNews) January 11, 2025
The Sussexes have extended further support by donating clothing, children’s items, and other essentials to families affected by the wildfires. They have also offered their Montecito home as a shelter for those displaced. On their Archewell Foundation website, they appealed to the public for help, stating, “Some have been left with nothing,” and encouraged donations of clothing and essentials to assist victims.
The wildfires continue to devastate the region, claiming over 11 lives and displacing thousands.