At first, it appeared to be a typical celebrity sighting at a major LA sports event. But as more fans recognized Meghan, the atmosphere quickly changed. Reports indicate that the first boos came from a small group of fans who spotted Meghan walking to her seat. However, these boos soon grew louder and spread throughout the entire arena as Meghan's image appeared on the Jumbotron. Within minutes, Meghan was being loudly booed by what sounded like the majority of the 18,000 fans packed into the Staples Center.
Eyewitnesses described it as an overwhelmingly negative reaction directed at Meghan, with people shouting remarks like "go back to England" and "we don't want you here." The intensity of the boos increased, and shockingly, some fans began throwing eggs in Meghan's direction from higher seating areas. Thankfully, the eggs missed Meghan but landed near her and Harry.
Security and staff rushed to intervene, but the incident had already deeply upset Meghan. She turned to Harry, expressing the need to leave immediately. Amid a timeout in the game and surrounded by their security detail, they hastily exited the arena, trying to shield themselves from further objects or taunts from the crowd.
Since Harry and Meghan stepped back from their senior royal roles and relocated to California in 2020, their popularity has waned in the UK. However, the negative reaction in Los Angeles came as a complete surprise to them. It raises questions about how welcome they truly feel in their new home.
Following the incident, Harry and Meghan have remained silent, but sources close to them have revealed Meghan's emotions. She was reportedly mortified, angry, and extremely upset by the loud booing and objects being thrown at her. She felt the reception was unjustified and pointed to continued prejudice against her as an American divorcee marrying into the British monarchy and as a woman of color.
This incident has sparked yet another wave of debate and controversy surrounding Harry and Meghan's actions and popularity. Supporters condemn the treatment Meghan received, citing ongoing racism she faces, while detractors argue it reflects frustration with their criticism of the royal family from afar.
Moreover, this situation raises concerns about Harry and Meghan's long-term security, given public reactions like this. Their taxpayer-funded security detail in the US faces increased scrutiny, especially after such a clear display of animosity and potential threat towards Meghan.
What was meant to be a fun night out watching basketball turned into another royal crisis for Harry and Meghan, adding to existing tensions within the royal family, particularly with Prince Charles and Prince William. This incident underscores the challenges they continue to face as they navigate their new roles and public perception on both sides of the Atlantic.
