What was meant to be a simple Thanksgiving charity visit quickly turned into yet another online storm for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The couple made a rare decision to bring both of their children, six-year-old Archie and four-year-old Lilibet, to a community meal-prep event in Los Angeles. The idea was easy to understand: a quiet day of service as a family, teaching the kids the value of helping others. Instead, the photos released from the kitchen ended up dissected from every angle.

At Our Big Kitchen Los Angeles, the Sussexes worked on the food line with their children nearby, and many admirers applauded the gesture. One supporter wrote that Harry and Meghan were simply passing on the spirit of service they grew up with. But the praise barely lasted before the familiar tide of criticism washed in.

Hair, hats, hygiene and a cascade of commentary