José Andrés applauded Meghan Markle and Prince Harry for visiting Los Angeles fire victims despite criticism surrounding it.
“Probably, you feel like it’s better that nobody does anything, because nobody criticizes you for showing up — but the amazing thing is that they show up,” the World Central Kitchen founder, 55, told People on Saturday.
Last week, “Family Ties” alum Justine Bateman slammed the pair for being “ambulance chasers” and “disaster tourists” following their appearance.
On Jan. 10, the royal couple were spotted handing out food and supplies to victims outside the Pasadena Convention Center.
They met up with Pasadena’s mayor, Victor Gordo, thanked first responders and also met up with their pal, Andrés, who was on hand with his charity, World Central Kitchen, which feeds people displaced by war and natural disasters.
Harry even went out of his way to get a donut for a bedridden man, Gordo told the Pasadena Star.
Andrés added on Saturday that he is “just glad they show up like so many others.”
“I mean, listen, I consider them friends,” the chef said of the duo, who have long been involved with his organization. “I know they are in the spotlight — not in America, but in Britain — and what I can tell you from what I know is that they don’t have to, but they decide to do it.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex live in Montecito, Calif., about 90 miles north of the LA area.
They have reportedly opened up their $14 million mansion to friends who have been forced to evacuate after the Palisades and Eaton Fires.
Markle, 43, postponed the release of her Netflix lifestyle show, “With Love, Meghan,” in light of the catastrophic fires.
The streaming platform announced they were moving the show’s premiere date from Jan. 15 to March 4 at the former actress’ request.
“I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California,” she said in a statement.
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