Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were spotted cozying up to Hollywood A-listers at a star-studded fundraiser in Santa Barbara, California. Among the celebrities in attendance were Oprah, Ellen DeGeneres, and Kevin Costner, who hosted the event at his luxurious oceanside estate. The fundraiser, called 'One805 Live!', aimed to raise money for local first responders and featured ticket prices as high as £9,800.
A glamorous affair with famous faces
At the event, Meghan and Harry were introduced on stage as special guests, with Meghan presenting Kevin Costner with an honorary award. The couple mingled with other VIP guests, including Katy Perry's parents who even managed to snap a selfie with the Sussexes. Meghan looked elegant in a monochrome jacket and sleek pulled-back hair, while Harry opted for a classic black ensemble.
A heartfelt tribute to first responders
During his speech, Kevin Costner expressed his gratitude for first responders and the importance of honoring their bravery. He said, "It's a place where I've had a lot of good luck in my life and I try to not put a wall around it. We can celebrate people that you'd maybe never meet, the ones who are the first to rush in."
Supporting a good cause
The fundraiser, 'One805 Live!', aims to provide support and therapy for first responders. Oprah made a special introduction, highlighting the impact of the event and even bringing first responder Sam Dudley and his service dog Rhonda on stage to share their story. Meghan and Harry were seen chatting with Costner and other VIP guests, many of whom were senior figures in local police and firefighting services.
A Royal-style appearance
Following their time on stage, Harry was seen dancing while Meghan engaged with other attendees. The couple even did a mini walkabout, reminiscent of their days as working members of the royal family. The event marked their first public appearance since returning from the Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, Germany, where they celebrated Harry's 39th birthday.
Overall, the fundraiser was a star-studded affair that brought together Hollywood glamour and a heartfelt tribute to first responders. Meghan and Harry's presence added even more excitement to the event, showcasing their continued dedication to charitable causes.