Prince Harry seems to have embraced his royal roots during his latest public appearance, as he and Meghan Markle comforted victims of the ongoing California wildfires.
Despite stepping down as a full-time working royal five years ago, some of Harry’s familiar royal behaviors were evident during the outing on January 10. Accompanied by Meghan, the Duke of Sussex visited an evacuation center in Pasadena, California, where the couple helped distribute food and supplies to those affected by the wildfires. This effort came shortly after they were reported to have donated additional supplies to those in need.
A body language expert analyzed the couple’s actions during this emotional visit, providing insight into their responses. Judi James told Express.co.uk, “Meghan uses a variety of different levels of response here to show her reactions to the stories she is hearing. Her shoulder touch leads to a very deep hug of consolation, followed by responses of horror as she clutches her hands together and even performs a praying hand gesture.”
Regarding Harry, James noted, “Harry looks a little distracted at one point and maybe at a loss to know how to react, but he mirrors his wife by placing a hand on the woman’s shoulder. He appears more assured with the man, cupping the side of his face before offering a very close hug of what looks like sympathy.”
James also remarked on Harry’s seemingly instinctual return to his royal role, observing, “It looks as though he has fallen into the kind of royal role he would have played after tragedies or disasters in the UK, where this kind of photo opportunity would have been seen as a way of boosting morale and ensuring attention.”
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, visited the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday, where evacuees of the Eaton Fire are sheltering. Celebrity chefs José Andrés of World Central Kitchen and Roy Choi were also on hand serving meals. pic.twitter.com/op4jP2xgAg
— CBS News (@CBSNews) January 11, 2025
Since their visit, fans have praised Harry and Meghan for their hands-on involvement. One fan commented, “Meghan Markle and Prince Harry rolled up their sleeves and were distributing food and supplies to the Los Angeles wildfire victims! They even opened up their Montecito home to evacuees! The Duke and the Duchess of Sussex are great human beings who care!”
Another added, “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s compassion shines brighter than ever as they bring warmth and aid to L.A. wildfire victims. Their visit with World Central Kitchen not only served meals but also hearts, reminding us of the power of community and kindness in difficult times.”