Music icon Elton John has publicly defended Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following media criticism of the couple’s use of private jets. The Grammy Award-winning singer took to Twitter to express his support for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, calling out what he deemed “distorted and malicious” media reports surrounding their recent private stay at his holiday home in the South of France.
The controversy ignited after photos surfaced of Harry, Meghan, and their son Archie boarding a private jet following a trip to Spain. This sparked a wave of criticism from British tabloids, accusing the couple of hypocrisy given their vocal advocacy for environmental conservation.
In his series of tweets, Elton John clarified that he had provided the private jet for the Sussex family’s trip to France. He further emphasized their commitment to environmentalism, stating that he had ensured the flight was carbon neutral by making the appropriate contributions to offset its carbon footprint.
This isn’t the first time the royal couple has faced scrutiny for their travel choices. Their commitment to environmental causes, coupled with their use of private aviation, has drawn criticism in the past. However, supporters argue that their position necessitates a certain level of security and privacy that commercial flights cannot provide.
Elton John, who was a close friend of Princess Diana, expressed his deep concern for the well-being of Harry and his family. He called for an end to the relentless and often untrue attacks on their character perpetuated by certain segments of the media. He urged the press to respect their privacy and allow them to live their lives without constant scrutiny and judgment.
The singer’s impassioned defense of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex highlights the double-edged sword of fame in the age of social media. While Harry and Meghan champion important causes and utilize their platform to raise awareness about issues close to their hearts, their every move is subject to public scrutiny and often harsh criticism.
