Justine Bateman has firmly established herself as the reigning queen of unfiltered commentary, recently taking to X (formerly Twitter) to deliver a scathing critique of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s controversial visit to a Southern California wildfire evacuation center.
Bateman’s fiery post quickly went viral, as she unapologetically called the royal couple “disaster tourists.” She accused them of swooping in for a superficial photoshoot while the real heroes, the relief workers, carried the burden of the crisis. Her post read: “Meghan Markle and Harry are no better than ambulance chasers. What a repulsive photo op they achieved. They are touring the damage—are they politicians now? They don’t live here; they are tourists. Disaster tourists.” Bateman’s words struck a chord with many, sparking widespread debate.
Footage of the visit seemed to bolster Bateman's accusations. Meghan, with darting eyes and awkward hugs, appeared to struggle to project genuine empathy. Her movements were described as erratic—one moment poking at a box with exaggerated interest, the next zipping across the room in what some likened to a real-life game of musical chairs. Harry, on the other hand, looked passive and unsure but at least refrained from the overzealous hugs Meghan seemed compelled to offer.
The internet was quick to dissect these interactions, with many pointing out Meghan’s tendency to hug everyone in sight. Critics questioned why she believed unsolicited embraces conveyed compassion, with one user commenting, “Actual relief workers don’t act like this—they know their roles and execute them. Meghan and Harry just showed up to waste everyone’s time.” Others labeled the couple “grief grifters,” accusing them of exploiting a tragic situation for personal PR gains.
Adding to the skepticism was the presence of their security detail, which many saw as incongruous with the grassroots nature of the relief efforts. “Nothing says ‘we’re just like you’ more than bringing bodyguards to a wildfire relief site,” quipped another user.
Bateman’s critique didn’t stop with Harry and Meghan. She also called out California officials for their handling of the wildfire crisis, solidifying her stance as someone unafraid to challenge those in power. In an interview, she expressed her frustration, saying, “I’m tired of living in a heavily curated, censored society filled with destructive nitwit celebrities and politicians.”
The backlash against the Sussexes has raised questions about the effectiveness of their PR strategies, with some suggesting their efforts to rebuild their public image have backfired. “When Hollywood heavyweights start calling you tone-deaf bottom feeders, it might be time to rethink your approach,” one commentator observed.
Meanwhile, Bateman’s no-holds-barred honesty has won her a new legion of fans. Many praised her for saying what others were too polite or fearful to admit, cementing her status as Hollywood’s new voice of reason. “We need more Justine in this world,” a supporter wrote, echoing a sentiment shared across social media.
As for Harry and Meghan, the overwhelming response to their visit suggests it might be wise for them to take a step back. When even Hollywood elites are turning against you, the message is clear: the public’s patience has run thin.
