Aussie Star Allegedly Snubs Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry completed a privately funded, four-day visit to Australia from April 14 to 18, 2026. The trip included charitable appearances and commercial engagements. It reopened debate over their public profile and purpose as non-working royals.
Tour overview
The couple traveled as private citizens. They visited Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney. The agenda highlighted mental health, community resilience and veterans’ support.
Allegations involving the Irwin family
Reports said an Aussie star allegedly snubbed the couple during the visit. Sources claimed 22-year-old Robert Irwin declined a public association.
Robert Irwin is the son of the late Steve Irwin. He serves as a global ambassador for the Earthshot Prize, a role linked to Prince William. Insiders said that existing ties to William influenced the Irwins’ stance.
Local and online reaction
Organisers reported mixed reception across events. A petition opposing taxpayer-funded security for the pair gathered more than 46,000 signatures.
Footage from April 17 at the Sydney Opera House showed smaller crowds than the couple’s 2018 tour. Social media users compared the two visits and criticised the turnout.
Engagements and ticketed appearances
Harry delivered a keynote at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit on workplace mental health. Summit ticket prices ranged from $997 to $2,378.
Meghan headlined a luxury women’s retreat called “Her Best Life” at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. Retreat tickets were listed between $2,699 and $3,199.
Meghan also made a surprise guest-judge appearance on MasterChef Australia’s 2026 season. She worked alongside Poh Ling Yeow, Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sofia Levin.
Expert commentary
Giselle Bastin, an associate professor at Flinders University, told AAP the trip included paid engagements. She suggested the visit could serve commercial aims for the couple.
Observers and some charity contacts offered warmer assessments. Veterans, medical staff and several charity leaders publicly welcomed the Sussexes.
Conclusion
The tour combined advocacy, paid appearances and high-profile meetings. Despite criticisms and contested encounters, the couple completed scheduled events across three cities.
