Kate Middleton's Hospital Visit vs. Meghan Markle's LA Fires Stunt: Royal Expert Weighs In
Kate Middleton has once again overshadowed Meghan Markle amid a public debate over their recent engagements, with the Princess of Wales earning praise for her meaningful actions during the same period as the LA wildfires tragedy.
The Princess of Wales stepped into the spotlight on Tuesday, January 16, by visiting the Royal Marsden Hospital, where she had previously received cancer treatment. Her thoughtful engagement was lauded as a masterclass in royal duty.
Commenting on the contrasting public appearances of the two royal women, royal expert Rebecca English highlighted Princess Catherine’s approach, emphasizing her ability to shift the focus onto others.
“She [Kate] didn’t go into the hospital and say, ‘This is my story, this is about me.’ She wanted to hear about other people,” Rebecca shared.
During her visit, Kate spoke candidly with patients and doctors, even recounting her experience with a chemotherapy port insertion. Rebecca noted, “That was incredibly open, but she did it in a way that was almost casual. She wanted to make it about them, not herself.”
Patients and staff were reportedly thrilled to have the Princess of Wales back, with Rebecca describing the visit as “a real masterclass in how to be a royal at these engagements.” She credited Kate’s late grandmother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II, as the source of her impeccable royal conduct.
In contrast, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex faced criticism for their volunteer efforts during the LA wildfire crisis. Royal commentators labeled their approach a "royal disasterclass," accusing the couple of turning the event into a personal publicity opportunity.
Charlotte Griffiths, another royal expert, weighed in, stating, “Their power is drawing attention to issues, but in this case, the wildfires were already a major focus. It felt like they were drawing attention to themselves.”
She highlighted a specific photograph of Meghan Markle looking directly at the camera, which fueled speculation about the couple’s motivations.
“If they wanted to help anonymously, they could have,” added royal correspondent Richard Eden. Critics questioned why Harry and Meghan, who no longer hold official royal roles, were being given guided tours of the wildfire devastation.
Megyn Kelly, host of *The Megyn Kelly Show,* joined the chorus of criticism, accusing the Sussexes of using their wildfire relief visit as a "photo-op" to bolster their public image.
“What kind of person would go to these fires and make sure they’re on camera, generating news stories about themselves while people’s homes are burning?” she said during an interview with Sky News host Paul Murray.
Kelly did not mince words, labeling the couple’s actions as “disgusting” and adding, “There’s something wrong with them.”
While Kate Middleton’s hospital visit has been celebrated as an example of empathetic and thoughtful royal behavior, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s LA wildfire relief efforts have faced backlash for appearing self-serving. The stark contrast between their approaches has reignited debates about their respective roles and influence in public life.
