Prince Harry Delivers Jokes at Kevin Costner’s Charity Event as Meghan Markle Remains Home Sick

Prince Harry entertained the audience with a joke while presenting an award at Kevin Costner’s charity event on Friday night, where Meghan Markle was notably absent due to illness.

The Duke of Sussex mingled with stars like musician Richard Marx at the One805Live! Fall Charity concert held at Costner’s beachfront estate in Carpinteria, California. The annual event benefits first responders in Santa Barbara County. Harry presented an award to Sheriff’s Office helicopter pilot Loren Courtney, humorously noting that he “rarely sees his family because he’s always here flying helicopters.”

Courtney shared tales from his career, including a memorable rescue involving five skiers who fell down a 30-foot embankment, which took five attempts to complete. Harry quipped, “You didn’t have to rescue him again, did you?” He commended the heroes present, stating, “There are people here tonight who are alive because of you… from everybody here, thank you so much.”

Last year, both Harry and Meghan presented Costner with the Heart of the Community Award. However, Meghan was unable to attend this year’s event due to illness, as reported by the Mirror. A source shared, “We were all hoping Meghan would attend like she did last year, but the word is that she is sick and could not make it.”

The night featured performances by artists including Kenny Loggins, Joe Bonamassa, and the folk duo You+Me, made up of Pink and Dallas Green. Backstage, Harry was seen chatting with Marx, as captured in a video shared on social media.

Harry’s appearance at the charity event followed his 40th birthday celebration on September 15, which was marked by a significant $8.5 million cash bonus he received due to arrangements made by his late great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. This birthday also marked the first time in three years that Harry received well-wishes from his family on social media.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been estranged from the royal family since stepping back from their royal duties and relocating to California in 2020. Following this charity event, Harry is set to travel to New York for several engagements, including The Diana Award, before heading back to the UK for the WellChild Awards on September 30. This charity is one of the few he continues to support since stepping back from royal duties.