Record producer David Foster has refuted claims that he snubbed Meghan Markle, stating there was no "awkward moment" after a video circulated appearing to show him ignore the Duchess of Sussex on the red carpet. Foster was hosting the David Foster Foundation event in Victoria, British Columbia, when the interaction occurred.
In a statement to People, Foster explained that he had already greeted Prince Harry and Meghan Markle approximately ten minutes prior to the red carpet encounter. "They both, graciously and selflessly, gave their time and went beyond to engage with everyone. Harry and Meghan are dear friends of mine," Foster said. "Anyone watching can see there was no awkward moment and certainly no snub."
He attributed the misinterpretation to media outlets seeking clickbait, suggesting that what appeared to be an intentional slight was simply "positioning" for a photograph. "It's sad that certain media chose to deceive a red carpet encounter for clickbait. They turned simple 'positioning' to get the best photo into a hurtful lie," he added.
A representative for the Sussexes declined to comment on the incident. Insiders close to Foster told the Daily Mail that he "genuinely just didn't see" Meghan Markle on the red carpet and that he is a longtime friend and admirer of the couple, emphasizing that he would never intentionally disregard them.
These sources also noted Foster's duties as host, suggesting he was likely distracted by interviews and other responsibilities during the event. "As host of the evening, David had a lot going on. David was doing interviews in that moment too," one insider said. "They had already said hi before that photo moment. There were lots of hugs and David introduced Harry and Meghan to his other family there."
Body language expert Judi James analyzed the moment for the Daily Mail, observing that Meghan appeared to extend her arm in greeting. When Foster did not immediately respond, James noted that Meghan lowered her head and adjusted her dress, an action interpreted as a distraction. According to James, Meghan then pulled Harry closer and laughed, potentially to counter any perception of disengagement.
Meghan and Harry were seated at the top table with Foster and his wife, actress Katharine McPhee, inside the venue. Meghan wore a black one-shouldered gown by Greta Constantine and accessorized with Princess Diana's diamond and sapphire earrings. Harry was seen in a black tuxedo.
The David Foster Foundation provides financial assistance to Canadian families with children requiring life-saving organ transplants. The event, which also featured Adam Levine of Maroon 5, successfully raised C$14.5 million (approximately £7.71 million) for the charity.
Foster and McPhee have a long-standing friendship with the Sussexes. In 2019, Foster facilitated the couple's stay at a friend's mansion on Vancouver Island. McPhee, who attended school with Meghan, previously described a "McPhee told Access Hollywood in 2020 that her husband and Prince Harry share a close bond, likening their relationship to father and son. She stated that she and Meghan knew each other from childhood, but that "Harry and my husband are friends. It's really nice."