Prince Harry and Meghan Markle found themselves at the center of controversy during Game 4 of the World Series at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who were given front-row seats behind the pitch clock, faced backlash from Dodgers fans on Wednesday as they watched the game against the Toronto Blue Jays.
The couple, sporting matching Dodgers caps, were prominently featured on the broadcast feed, with Major League Baseball (MLB) even promoting their attendance through a slow-motion video and a front-row image. These posts garnered close to 6 million views and nearly 5,000 comments, many of which expressed outrage from fans.
Fans React to Royal Treatment
Criticism mounted as fans questioned why the royal couple received preferential seating over local legends. Behind them sat LA icon and Dodgers part-owner Magic Johnson, alongside four-time World Series winner Sandy Koufax. The sight of these sports icons seated behind the Duke and Duchess left many fans incensed.
“The real royalty is right behind them,” wrote Bill Post on X, echoing the sentiments of many who felt the seating arrangement was unjust.
Adding to the tension, when Harry and Meghan appeared on the stadium’s big screen, they were met with a chorus of boos from the crowd. Fans also jested about the couple being a jinx, as the Dodgers lost the game 6-2, allowing the Blue Jays to level the series at 2-2.
Celebrity Affair at Dodger Stadium
The game turned into a star-studded event, with celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Sydney Sweeney, LeBron James, Vanessa Bryant, and Donald Glover in attendance. Despite the high-profile audience, the focus remained on the royal couple and the controversy surrounding their presence.
This development follows a grueling 18-inning Game 3, where the Dodgers emerged victorious. However, in Game 4, the Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stole the spotlight with a two-run home run, contributing to the team’s victory. His performance, alongside ace pitcher Shane Bieber, laid the foundation for a crucial win.
“I’m always trying to compete for my city, compete for the team, and when you’re competing, good things happen,” Guerrero said after the game, ensuring the series will return to Toronto for Game 6.
Historical Context and Public Perception
The backlash against Harry and Meghan is not entirely surprising, given their complex relationship with the public and media. Since stepping back from royal duties and relocating to California, the couple has frequently been in the spotlight, often facing scrutiny over their actions and decisions.
Experts suggest that the couple’s high-profile appearances can sometimes overshadow local figures, leading to public discontent. This incident at Dodger Stadium is a reflection of the broader challenges they face in balancing their celebrity status with public expectations.
Looking Ahead in the Series
As the World Series continues, the Dodgers and Blue Jays are set to face off again at Dodger Stadium for Game 5. The series will then move back to Toronto for Games 6 and 7, promising an intense conclusion to the championship.
Meanwhile, the royal couple’s appearance at the game serves as a reminder of the ongoing fascination and criticism they attract, both in the United States and abroad. As they navigate their roles in the public eye, the reactions from events like this will likely continue to shape their narrative.
