Prince Harry and Meghan Markle hit back at 'disaster tourist' claims

After visiting and volunteering at a meal distribution centre for those affected by the terrifying Los Angeles wildfires, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were brutally branded 'disaster tourists' - and an insider has hit back at the savage claims

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's reaction to being branded 'disaster tourists' after being pictured hugging victims of the Los Angeles fires has been revealed by an insider.

As the devastating blazes have spread across southern California, the Sussexes were seen hugging people and speaking to emergency crews at the Pasadena Community Centre in Los Angeles. The couple also met Victor Gordo, mayor of Pasadena, and in the footage, they are seen speaking to World Central Kitchen (WCK) founder chef Jose Andres, as well as embracing victims and volunteers.

It led to actress Justine Bateman slamming the couple for a "repulsive photo op" in a scathing statement on X. She added: "They are "touring the damage"? Are they politicians now? They don't live here; they are tourists. Disaster Tourists."

However, a source told Page Six that Harry and Meghan feel the actress's comments were 'offensive' They explained: "It’s offensive to Meghan and Harry that anybody would think this is merely a photo opportunity."

Harry and Meghan live in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, some 90 miles from Los Angeles. But the source added: "Meghan was born and raised in Los Angeles, so this is, and always will be, home to her." They also added that the duchess was 'not a tourist' and that "her heart is completely broken for all the lives that have been lost and for those whose homes have been destroyed in these fires."

Mayor Gordo also praised the pair, saying they were keen to provide any support they could. The mayor said they were "great people" with "great personalities." He added, "They really buoyed the spirits of the first responders. We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl, and people were very happy to see them."

It is believed the couple have donated clothing, children’s items and other essential supplies for people affected by the fires. They also invited friends and loved ones who had been forced to evacuate into their home, it is understood.

Last week, they recommended a list of fire service charities, animal groups and other initiatives to support. They said on their website: "In the last few days, wildfires in southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life."

They added: "If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate, and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do. Be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating. Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need."

Meanwhile, the release of a new Netflix series produced by the Duchess of Sussex will be postponed due to the devastation caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, the streaming platform has announced. Eight-part series Love, Meghan, which will see the actress share cooking, gardening and hosting tips, will premiere on March 4 instead of January 15.

"Im thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California,” Meghan said in a statement to Tudum, the official companion site to Netflix.