Just In: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle labeled ‘disaster tourists’ by Justine Bateman over LA fire response….See More

Royals have been criticized after helping California fire victims

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have faced criticism for their involvement in helping wildfire victims in Los Angeles, with actress Justine Bateman calling them “disaster tourists.”

On Saturday, Bateman, 58, expressed her disapproval on social media, accusing the couple of using the situation for a “photo op

What a repulsive ‘photo op’ they achieved. They are ‘touring the damage’? Are they politicians now?” Bateman posted online.

She further labeled them “tourists” and referred to their actions as “Disaster Tourists” under the hashtag #PalisadesFire.

What started the controversy?
The controversy arose after Bateman shared a video clip of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex assisting at a convention center in Pasadena, California. The couple’s representatives have yet to respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

While Bateman criticized their actions, Pasadena Mayor Victor M. Gordo praised their presence.

It’s great people, great personalities, and great heart for them to come out here and meet with the first responders, meet with the people who were affected,” Gordo told FOX.

He also recounted a heartfelt gesture from Harry, who offered a donut to a man who didn’t recognize him. The individual, unaware of Harry’s identity, made a memorable remark.

“If you ever run for anything, I’ll vote for you.”

Two days before their public appearance, a spokesperson for Southern California Edison confirmed that the couple’s Montecito home was located in a “high-risk zone” as wildfires raged across Los Angeles County.

Thankfully, Markle and Harry have remained safe. They offered their home to friends affected by the fire, as more than 100,000 residents have been evacuated. In addition, their Archewell Foundation has been providing essential supplies, clothing, and items for children to those in need.

The couple also postponed the release of Markle’s upcoming Netflix show, With Love, Meghan, which was initially set to premiere on Wednesday.

Along with Markle and Harry, other celebrities, such as Jennifer Garner, have been seen volunteering in LA in response to the devastating fires. Several A-listers, including Leighton Meester and Miles Teller, have lost their homes, with many more forced to evacuate as the fires continue to spread across the region.