A galaxy of political and entertainment stars descended upon Los Angeles's Peacock Theater for a gala fundraiser in support of President Biden's re-election campaign.
The event, expected to raise at least $28 million, featured a veritable who's who of Hollywood and political elite. Among the attendees were First Lady Jill Biden, former President Barack Obama, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Barbra Streisand, and a host of other celebrities and influential figures.
The guest list also included Paula Anka, Kathy Griffin, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Bryan Lourd, Richard Lovett, Jimmy Kimmel, Jack Black, Kathryn Hahn, Jason Bateman, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and high-profile politicians like Governor Gavin Newsom, LA Mayor Karen Bass, and multiple US representatives.
Thousands of Biden supporters attended, with ticket prices ranging from $250 for the distant seats to $500,000 for a premium package that included front-row seats, photos with both Presidents, and a VIP after-party. This wasn't a comprehensive list as the press office confirmed additional celebrities who were present. However, conspicuously absent were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Why didn't the couple attend the fundraiser? It's an intriguing question, given that the event was held in Los Angeles, a short distance from their residence in Santa Barbara, and they didn't appear to have any prior engagements. Here are some speculated reasons for their absence:
The first theory is that the Sussexes felt unsafe. While the event featured robust security measures, including the Secret Service and LAPD, the presence of protesters could have been a concern for them. However, considering the high level of security for the President, First Lady, and Governor of California, it seems unlikely that safety was a genuine issue.
Another theory suggests that the Sussexes might be financially constrained or simply unwilling to spend money on charity. Ticket prices ranged from $250 to a $500,000 package, which included four seats in the first three rows in front of the stage, a reception with photos with Biden and Obama, and a VIP after-party. The steep prices might have deterred the couple, who have a reputation for being frugal when it comes to non-personal expenses. Even the $20 virtual watch party tickets might have seemed too much for them, especially given Meghan's preference for free perks.
It's possible that they weren't interested in attending or that they weren't invited. The premium $500,000 package came with four tickets, suggesting they could have brought friends, but perhaps they couldn't find anyone willing to join them. This theory seems less plausible considering their social circle, but it can't be entirely dismissed.
A fourth theory posits that as former royals, they strive to remain politically neutral. Meghan has been involved with the Aspen Institute's censorship machine, voter misinformation initiatives, and has controversial views on the First Amendment, illustrating her political aspirations. However, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are no longer working royals; they stepped back from their duties to have the freedom to pursue their own interests, including using their status for financial gain and political involvement. They were perfectly free to attend and make their presence felt.
Lastly, Meghan may have been preoccupied with personal ventures. There's speculation that she was busy expanding her Archewell product line, possibly with a new offering of organic strawberry jam or dog biscuits. While this might sound trivial, it aligns with her entrepreneurial interests and focus on building the Archewell brand.
The reasons for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's absence from the fundraiser are speculative, ranging from security concerns and financial constraints to personal projects and a desire for political neutrality. Regardless, the event was a significant gathering of political and entertainment figures rallying in support of President Biden's re-election campaign.
