Recently, self-proclaimed philanthropists Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a high-profile visit to a Los Angeles food bank and wildfire-stricken area, only to become the targets of sharp criticism from none other than actor James Woods and actress Justine Bateman.
As Los Angeles grappled with the devastation of wildfires, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived with baseball caps and camera crews in tow, seemingly prepared for a photo op rather than any meaningful contribution. Critics were quick to pounce, with Justine Bateman calling the visit “a repulsive photo op” on social media, likening the couple to "ambulance chasers" and dubbing them “disaster tourists.”
The backlash didn’t stop there. Legendary actor James Woods, known for his dry humor and quick wit, entered the fray. Having recently returned to his Pacific Palisades home—miraculously spared by the fires—Woods expressed his relief online. However, when he saw Harry and Meghan’s antics circulating on social media, he couldn’t resist a jab. Retweeting a post that mocked their presence with the caption, "Haven’t they suffered enough?" Woods quipped, “First laugh I’ve had all week.” The post ignited a social media frenzy, with users unleashing scathing critiques and sarcastic commentary about the couple's actions.
Comments ranged from outright disdain to biting humor. One user labeled Meghan a "malignant narcissist," accusing her of feeling nothing for others and staging her appearance with a personal camera crew. Another pointed out, “Genuine help and concern don’t need a camera crew.” The cynicism grew with remarks like, “Are they filming another Netflix special?” and, “They didn’t even bring an extra car for evac routes; they’re just there for film credits.” Some even joked about legal action, with one user saying, “If it were my home, I’d sue their asses off.”
As if the public's commentary wasn't sharp enough, satirical news outlet The Babylon Bee weighed in with its signature humor. Its mock headline proclaimed, "Los Angeles Saved After Meghan Markle Arrives to Stand Around Wearing Baseball Cap." The article detailed the “heroic” act of Markle’s mere presence, humorously suggesting that the wildfires ceased thanks to her aimless strolling in a Dodgers cap. A fictitious local resident was quoted as saying, “The way Meghan just lazily looked around wearing a hat—we owe her our lives!” The piece concluded with exaggerated praise, claiming Markle would be honored with a monument rivaling the Statue of Liberty for her “great deeds.”
The harsh reality is that Harry and Meghan’s public image appears to be fading as fast as a dying campfire. Once seen as royal luminaries, they are increasingly viewed as out-of-touch celebrities engaging in performative gestures. Critics argue they don’t reside in Los Angeles, aren’t integrated into the community, and do more harm than good by turning disaster zones into red-carpet moments. Even locals seem exasperated, with one sarcastic commenter noting, “Why waste time with grifters on someone else’s property instead of taking care of your own residence?”
This public relations misstep has amplified the growing fatigue with Harry and Meghan’s actions, leaving many to question whether their interventions are more about spotlighting themselves than helping others.
