Legendary music producer David Foster has addressed viral video footage that fueled speculation he snubbed Meghan Markle at a charity event. Foster stated that he and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are "dear friends" and characterized the social media interpretation of the interaction as a "hurtful lie."
The incident occurred on August 7th at the David Foster and Friends foundation event, which Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended. Video circulating on social media showed Foster walking past Markle as she appeared to greet him, only to return a moment later with his wife, Katharine McPhee, to pose for a photo with the royal couple.
"As the host of the David Foster and Friends foundation event, I had already greeted our friends, the Duke and Duchess, at the entrance 10 minutes before the red carpet encounter," Foster said in a statement to People. "They both, graciously and selflessly, gave their time and went beyond to engage with everyone."
Foster explained that the perception of an awkward moment or a snub was a misinterpretation of "positioning" for a photograph. "Anyone watching can see there was no awkward moment and certainly no snub," he added. "It’s sad that certain media chose to deceive a red carpet encounter for clickbait."
Foster and McPhee have developed a close friendship with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle over the years. Their connection was strengthened through McPhee, who knew Markle from their younger days in musical theater.
Foster previously played a role in supporting the couple during their transition away from senior royal duties. In late 2019, he helped arrange private accommodation for Markle and Prince Harry on Vancouver Island, providing a secluded location as they prepared to step back from royal life in 2020. At the time, Foster told the Daily Mail he was pleased they could "go under the radar for so long" during their stay.