23 September 2023 , 18:49
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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry seemed to be in high spirits as they came together with a number of A-list celebrities in support of a charity event hosted by Kevin Costner.
Among the stars the couple mingled with at the One805 Live! event was talk show host Oprah Winfrey, despite recent claims she was trying to "distance herself" from them. Harry was seen chatting to Oprah throughout the night, with the pair even seeming to share a joke.
The glitzy event comes after fans suggested Oprah was stepping away from Meghan and Harry, after her explosive interview them back in 2021. During an appearance on CBS Morning, Oprah was asked about the couple's decision for just Harry to attend King Charles' Coronation in May. She simply replied: "They haven't asked me my opinion."
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry sat down for a tell-all interview with OprahHer comments left many fans questioning her friendship with the Sussexes and they quickly took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their views. One person posted: "Sounds like Oprah is distancing herself with this comment."
Another replied: "I like how Oprah was very clear, 'they haven't asked me… my opinion.' So in other words, whatever they do, I have nothing to do with it." However, a PR expert has said Meghan and Harry have put all rumours to bed once and for all.
Oprah Winfrey snubs Harry and Meghan as expert claims 'the tide has turned'
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, PR to the stars Mayah Riaz said: "By being reunited with Oprah, it signals that their relationship with her remains strong, dispelling any speculation about a rift between them. They've known Oprah for many years and by not directly addressing the rumours, their attendance together tells us all we need to know."
The Sussexes attended a star-studded event hosted by Kevin Costner on Friday (Getty Images for the Invictus Ga)
Oprah was also spotted at the event (Getty Images FOR ESSENCE)The One805 Live! charity event supports the work of first responders. It took place on Friday evening and was held at Kevin Costner's $26million (£21million) polo field in Santa Barbara.
Mayah said Meghan and Harry's appearance at the event will "significantly impact their profile". She explained: "It's a high-profile, charitable event and it shows the couple are committed to charitable causes."
The PR expert added: "It gives Meghan and Harry have the opportunity to demonstrate their dedication to philanthropy. Kevin Costner knew by inviting the couple, it would raise awareness for his event and shines a spotlight on the first responders - both of which are key factor."