Prince Harry and Meghan Markle , the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, made a surprise visit to support those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Their appearance at the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday, reportedly aimed to comfort victims and first responders during a crisis. The wildfires have caused significant destruction, displacing many families across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas.

The couple was actively involved with evacuees, providing food parcels and emotional support. They were also seen working along with volunteers from World Central Kitchen (WCK), an organization that has played a significant role in providing meals to those affected by the fires. José Andrés, founder of WCK, was also present during their visit, which underlines the efforts to help the people.

A low-key yet meaningful visit says the Mayor
Reports indicate that Prince Harry and Meghan initially served food anonymously while wearing face masks to maintain a low profile. Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo told Fox11, praised their efforts, stating that they "didn't come out here for publicity" but rather to genuinely help those affected. He noted that their presence had significantly lifted spirits among both victims and emergency workers. "They want to be as helpful as they can be," Gordo said, noting that the couple was determined to do whatever they could to help.

They spent the night at the convention centre, which has been turned into an evacuation shelter. They met families who lost their homes and thanked first responders for their bravery. The mayor called them "great people" determined to contribute positively amid the chaos.

Harry and Meghan are continuously supporting those in need
Apart from their visit, few days go Harry and Meghan made to headlines as they opened their home in Montecito to friends and loved ones who had been forced to evacuate due to the wildfires. In a statement released on January 9, they expressed concern for families who have been affected by the fires: "In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life. A state of emergency has been issued."

Harry and Meghan also urged people to help those affected by the wildfires by providing shelter or donating stuff in such a crisis. "If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you can offer them a haven in your home, please do. And 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 & clothing, and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on theground helping those in need."

Is all this a publicity stunt?
While many welcomed their visit to the Pasadena Convention Center, it also caused some controversy on social media. Many questioned the motives of the couple, saying that despite their good intentions, the visit appeared staged for publicity. Videos from their visit went viral quickly, and people debated whether their actions were sincere or merely a photo opportunity. A user on X shared the video of visit and said, "Watch as Meghan Markle could care less about this woman’s story & walks off mid conversation like the hunchback gremlin she is looking for her next photo op moment. This woman’s story is too boring for Meghan to be interested in"


Despite this backlash, many supporters also said that Harry and Meghan’s involvement brought attention to the crisis and encouraged others to assist those affected by the wildfires. Harry and Meghan have managed to call the attention of people toward this crisis. Their action is an encouragement for people to provide support for the people whose houses have burned because of these fires.

These mixed reactions could also be due to Meghan’s sudden efforts to be seen in public. A few days ago, the Duchess of Sussex made a comeback to Instagram after a nearly five-year hiatus, posting her first video, in which she runs along a beach and stops to write "2025" in the sand. Meghan is also ready to return to the entertainment industry with her new series called 'With Love, Meghan'. The eight-part lifestyle show will air on January 15, 2025. It will have Meghan hosting her friends and celebrities at her California home, dishing out some insights on cooking, gardening, and lifestyle.