Los Angeles has been burning and stumbling for a while, with Hollywood close behind, ready to play the hero. Among the A-listers swooping in for some real-life superhero action, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were not far off, rallying others to lend a helping hand to the fire victims. But as the Duke and the Duchess dove into their relief efforts, getting on the ground to join forces with World Central Kitchen, their actions sparked a backlash from Jason Bateman’s sister, Justine Bateman.

In the wake of the devastation, the Sussexes rolled up their sleeves to tackle the crisis head-on, but Bateman’s remarks might have ruffled their feathers, as the latest reports suggest.

According to a new report by Page Six citing an exclusive source, Justine Bateman’s earlier remarks surrounding the Sussexes that likened their efforts to a carefully crafted “photo-op” have been “offensive” to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. Bateman labeled the lovebirds “disaster tourists” among other things. Although the couple resides 90 miles north of the city, a source claims since Markle was born and brought up in LA, “this is, and always will be, home to her.” 

The insider sets the record straight that the Duchess is definitely not just a “tourist” and is equally heartbroken for the lost and affected. Because their hearts go out to the victims, they “invested significant time and resources,” whether in terms of donation, opening up their doors for the evacuees, or stepping out to lend a hand at the World Central Kitchen. As per the source, the couple contributed several hours to “volunteering,” way before the media got a hunch of their presence.

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Despite their obvious intentions, the spotlight remains on Justine Bateman’s icy remarks about Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s valiant efforts to combat the LA fires. Here is a recap of the biting comments for the uninitiated.

Since the news of the wildfire broke out, leaving the City of Angels in shambles, every Hollywood elite leaped off their pedestal for a touchdown to help those in need. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were no exception, and if anything, they had been at the forefront of rallying support, urging others to join the cause, and offering assistance. However, right when their heroism became fodder for tabloids, Justine Bateman swooped in, dismissing their on-field efforts as a choreographed “photo-op.”

Bateman took an aim at the couple, accusing them of merely surveying the damage, a phrase typically reserved for leaders assessing disaster aftermath. Even after their contributions, Bateman also labeled them “disaster tourists.” Thus, given their familiarity with weathering storms of criticism, their umbrage is understandable, especially considering the sensitive timing and ferocity of the latest onslaught.

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What do you think of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry getting offended over Justine Bateman's remarks? Let us know in the comments below!