Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was involved in a widely discussed moment with music producer David Foster at the 40th anniversary gala for the David Foster Foundation in Victoria, Canada, on Friday. A video clip circulating on social media appears to show Foster walking past Markle's outstretched hand as they were on the red carpet.
In the footage, both Prince Harry and Markle greeted Foster. While Foster seemingly acknowledged Harry with a smile, he did not appear to directly engage with Markle. Foster's wife, actress Katherine McPhee, then joined Markle, and the two couples posed for a photograph. During the photo opportunity, Harry and Foster shared an exchange, with Foster appearing to direct his words primarily to Harry.
The clip quickly drew attention online, with many social media users interpreting Foster's actions as an intentional snub. Comments ranged from "He totally ghosted her but did acknowledge Harry" to "This was soooo obvious."
However, other viewers offered alternative interpretations, suggesting the interaction was not a snub. Some commenters argued that Markle was guiding Foster for the photo and that his movement was not dismissive. One user questioned, "What’s wrong about this, she’s so kind giving a space for picture taking, where’s the snub?????"
Markle and Prince Harry have known Foster and McPhee for several years. Prince Harry has been described as having a close bond with Foster, with McPhee previously calling their relationship "beautiful" and akin to a "father and son" dynamic. In 2020, reports indicated that Foster assisted the couple in finding a home in Canada after they stepped back as senior members of the British royal family.
McPhee also shared a personal connection with Markle, noting they attended the same school, Immaculate Heart, though at different times. McPhee mentioned participating in school shows with Markle during their middle school and high school years.
Representatives for Foster and Markle had not commented on the viral video when this report was filed.