The Harkles strike again, this time with their latest "disaster tourism" antics, in Pasadena.
Reports allege that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle cleared out over 100 volunteers for a mere 17-minute photo op. The couple reportedly requested that real volunteers leave the scene, enabling them to pose as helpers of wildfire relief efforts without being overshadowed. Critics have pointed out the irony of "aiding" those affected by disaster while simultaneously disrupting the actual work being done to assist them.
Eyewitness accounts suggest the couple arrived at the Altadena Distribution Center, donning their signature masks, and took a brief walk around the area. However, it appears that no substantial volunteering occurred. Instead, their presence reportedly consisted of strolling through the site under heavy security, taking staged photographs, and leaving without engaging in any meaningful relief efforts. These 17 minutes, some argue, served more to enhance their public image than to genuinely assist a community in crisis.
One Reddit user, referencing insights from the Jimmy Paro podcast, shared details of the disruption caused by Harry and Meghan’s visit. The podcast's co-host revealed that her daughter, present at the volunteer site, witnessed the chaos firsthand. Hundreds of genuine volunteers were reportedly told to stand down, making way for the couple's entourage. This move effectively halted actual disaster relief efforts, sparking frustration among those who had arrived to make a difference.
Adding to the controversy, the couple allegedly brought along their own group of photo-ready "volunteers," presumably to amplify the optics of their goodwill. Meanwhile, homeowners and victims of the wildfires, who had already suffered immense loss, were reportedly unable to access their homes during the couple’s carefully curated appearance. Critics have suggested that Harry and Meghan’s actions reflect a troubling pattern of prioritizing publicity over meaningful charity work.
This incident is not an isolated one. The couple has faced similar criticism for their appearances at other solemn events, such as the Thanksgiving event for immigrant women, a children’s cancer fundraiser, and the Uvalde school shooting memorial. Each time, they have been accused of overshadowing the very causes they claim to support, turning serious moments into personal photo opportunities.
The backlash surrounding this latest controversy has highlighted growing concerns over what some describe as a "career" built on exploiting tragedies for public relations purposes. The couple’s apparent disregard for the real needs of affected communities has led many to call their behavior not only tone-deaf but also disrespectful. By prioritizing their personal image over genuine assistance, Harry and Meghan have, according to critics, reduced the concept of charity to little more than a glamorous spectacle.
Hollywood and public figures are being urged to take note of this pattern of self-serving disaster tourism. Many believe such actions should be called out for what they are—a blatant display of narcissism cloaked in the guise of charity. While genuine acts of kindness often go unnoticed, Harry and Meghan seem to have mastered the art of ensuring their efforts, however minimal, are seen by the world. Whether this approach will continue to resonate with their supporters remains to be seen, but for now, the criticism grows louder with every appearance.
