Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may have a controversial image within the Royal Family; however, California residents have been singing their praises.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not hold back their support for victims during the devastating wildfires that destroyed most of Southern California. While many headlines focused on celebrities who lost their Pacific Palisades homes, the royal couple helped regular citizens.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Montecito home avoided the worst of the wildfires that rampaged through nearby towns and neighborhoods. However, instead of enjoying their safety, the fantastic duo drove straight into the hot zone to console those in need.
Article continues below advertisement
Prince Harry And Meghan Markle Showcase Their Humanitarian Spirit
A source recently shared Harry and Meghan’s touching deeds during the tragic wildfires, revealing they went above and beyond to support those affected by the incident. The insider shared:
“They could have easily left town, but they actually drove two hours towards the fire to help out at the World Central Kitchen.”
“They served meals to people that have been evacuated; they spoke with people and tried to offer some solace,” the source continued. They claimed Harry and Meghan toured the hardest-hit areas, comforting victims and making multiple donations in the days after the disaster.
Article continues below advertisement
The fantastic duo’s humanitarian efforts continued with them opening their Montecito home to those displaced by the wildfires while imploring their famous friends to do the same. In Touch noted they shared their plea for kindness on their website, writing:
“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. And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.”
Article continues below advertisement
The Royal Couple Partnered With Different Organizations To Help Wildfire Victims
In their statement, Harry and Meghan revealed people could help wildfire victims by donating to various charities and organizations. The list included the groups they had worked with through their Archewell Foundation.
The couple’s consistent efforts to spread relief touched the source’s heart, who showered them in praises. “It was exactly what you’d expect of Princess Diana’s son,” they said about Harry. As for Meghan, they noted she was a “California girl” and deeply affected by the wildfires.
“They’re both so sad, but they’re being proactive, and they’re looking at ways their foundation can help,” the insider alleged. According to reports, the widespread disaster killed at least 29 people, destroyed over 18,000 structures and forced over 200,000 residents to evacuate.
Article continues below advertisement
The Sussexes Want To Do More To Help
The insider applauded the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for looking out for regular people, stressing that the wildfires affected more than the wealthy people the media covered.
“There are plenty of regular people that are suffering unimaginable loss and trauma,” the source explained.
“There is so much need, and they want to make sure they pinpoint the right charities to support in this,” they continued about Harry and Meghan’s relief efforts. The insider added:
“They’ve also invited everyone they know that’s in L.A. and wants to get out to come to their home in Montecito since it’s not threatened.”
Article continues below advertisement
“Emotionally, they are very impacted by this. The collective pain and suffering that this city they both love is going through is devastating,” the source concluded. Their comments come weeks after Meghan showcased her sensitivity to the situation by postponing the release date of her new Netflix show.
PR Professionals Criticized The Former Actress’ Premiere Date
Before the tragic wildfires, Meghan announced the release of a new Netflix show, “With Love, Meghan,” set for January. However, The Blast reported that PR professionals bashed her and her team’s decision to continue with the proposed release date.
These critics stressed that the Duchess’s actions were “insensitive” and “tone-deaf” amid the wildfires. “I think Netflix bosses will have to make some big decisions as to whether to air With Love, Meghan in the next week,” UK’s brand and culture expert Nick Ede shared.
He noted the show was “so centered on California life, Los Angeles, and Montecito, providing a glimpse into aspirational and inspirational living.” However, airing such content shortly after the tragedy would negatively affect Meghan and Netflix’s images.
Article continues below advertisement
Inside Meghan Markle’s Decision About Her Upcoming Show
Following concerns about Meghan’s show’s release date, Netflix announced on its website that it had agreed to postpone the premiere at her request. The new date has been set for March, a decision the “Suits” alum proudly celebrated.
“I’m 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,” she wrote.
Ede, the UK’s brand and culture expert, applauded the Duchess’s decision to postpone her show’s release. He believed her actions would revamp her controversial image, especially with her and Harry’s efforts to save the wildfire victims.