Justine Bateman criticises Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for 'photo op' amid L.A. wildfire wreckage

Harry and Meghan are labelled 'disaster tourists' by Justine Bateman for insensitive 'photo ops' with victims.

Actress Justine Bateman sent a slew of backlash towards Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for a 'repulsive photo op' with the victims and first responders of the Los Angeles wildfires.

After condemning the mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, for the destruction, the Family Ties actress called out the Sussexes, using words like 'ambulance chasers' and 'disaster tourists' to address the pair. 

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. #PalisadesFire https://t.co/Kv6v6jSX4y

— Justine Bateman (@JustineBateman) January 12, 2025

 

Since the wildfire spread last week, the couple has been seen actively participating to help the victims within their community, from passing out meals to meeting with first responders.

They also opened up $29 million Montecito mansion to friends and family who had to ecvacuate amid the wildfires. 

Bateman's tirade attracted a host of reactions from internet users with some agreeing with the actress to other siding in support of Harry and Meghan.

You aren’t lying. It’s not their neighborhood-they wouldn’t be caught dead in Pasadena normally. 2 hours from Montecito and the per capita income isn’t high enough.

— Princess CarParkle (@unreMARKLEble) January 12, 2025

I’m at a loss as to why you’re so bitter & angry Justine. Meghan & Harry decided to help the poor people affected by these horrific fires. Unless you expected them to wear burkhas, of course they were going to be recognised & photographed. Life is too short to be this nasty imho

— Aisha Ali-Khan (@aak1880) January 13, 2025

Bateman also spoke out against Calfornia authorities for mismanaging the fire and police departments. “If you’re going to run a city, or run a state, you have to take care of the basics. And that’s [to] make sure that your fire and police department[s] are well funded.”, she said continuing that, “If you’re not doing everything you can to take care of those problems if they arise, then get out. You are useless to us".