Fans have noticed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been stepping out lately for solo appearances and charity events. Experts say it’s all part of a PR strategy to pull the couple out of the narrative that the only thing they have to offer is dirt on the royal family and become more known for philanthropic efforts.

The Duchess of Sussex has also been dealing with some bad press lately after The Hollywood Reporter published what former staffers said about working for her. Members of the “Sussex Survivors Club” described the former Suits star as a “terrible boss” everyone is “terrified of” who “barks out orders” like a “dictator in high heels.” And when some came to Meghan’s defense, those former employees doubled down calling her a “demon boss.“

To distract from all that, Harry’s wife attended the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala on Oct. 5. However, Meghan gave a reason for attending that is being challenged by her ex-pal who was also there.

Statement regarding Meghan’s attendance at Children’s Hospital Gala

Kelly McKee Zajfen and Meghan Markle attend the 2024 Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala | Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

Meghan attended the affair with her friend Kelly McKee Zajfen and following that appearance, the Sussexes’ website shared her reason for being there.

A statement posted on the site read: “This weekend, Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex attended the biennial Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) Gala, an inspiring event dedicated to celebrating the exceptional services provided to children across LA … The duchess was proud to stand alongside esteemed guests in support of this vital cause.

“The duchess has a long-standing connection with CHLA, having visited the hospital on several occasions to meet with patients and participate in the annual Make March Matter campaign. Her presence at the gala underscored her commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of children around the world.”

The statement concluded: “The evening was a resounding success, reminding us all of the power of community support in improving the lives of those in need. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to CHLA and everyone involved for their dedication and generosity. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.”

The duchess’s old pal claims this is the real reason Meghan was there

Meghan Markle on the red carpet at the 2024 Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala | Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

Many other celebrities were on hand for the gala as well including Demi Lovato, Kaley Cuoco, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jimmy Kimmel, and Colin Hanks. British socialite and radio host Lizzie Cundy, who used to be very good friends with Meghan, was also there.

According to Cundy, the duchess “wasn’t there long” and believes she only showed up for a photo op.

“There wasn’t a great deal of warmth from people when she arrived. She wasn’t there long — she seemed to be there for the photographs,” Cundy told the Daily Mail, adding, “Meghan needs LA more than LA needs her. LA people feel they’ve been played by her.”

According to Cundy, “Harry and Meghan were loved because they’re part of the royal family, but they’ve bad-mouthed the royals, who are loved in LA. It’s a shame, because charity work is where her and Harry do great things.”

Cundy and Meghan became friends after meeting at a charity gala in 2013. However, Meghan suddenly cut off contact and changed her number when she and Harry got engaged.