EXCLUSIVE Celebrity chef weighs in on Meghan Markle's As Ever business venture... before comparing her to Melania Trump
Despite the Duchess of Sussex being met with scathing reviews following the launch of her new lifestyle project, Andrés remains steadfast in his support.
In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com, conducted at the City Harvest Gala in New York City, the Michelin-starred humanitarian opened up about his admiration for the mom-of-two.
'Listen, I think the work she does is great. She is great,' Andrés said passionately.
'She could be a person that goes into her own world and forgets about the real world but - what I can only say as her friend - she's a friend, but also she's there in the fire.
'She doesn't need to be out [in the public eye] but she is there.'
Discussing Markle's As Ever brand in more depth - most notably, the jam spread that has become a hotly-contested topic - Andrés fiercely defended his pal.
'It's good. It's good. It's very good,' the famed restauranteur said, having been sent a jar directly by Markle herself.
He then addressed the fierce criticism surrounding the brand, explaining: 'I don't know why it is.
'I think we should be in the moment of celebrating anytime anybody wants to do anything.
'Can be her, can be Gwyneth Paltrow, can be me, can be Eva Longoria, can be Melania Trump.
'Let's celebrate what anybody wants to do. Just forget about criticizing others.
'Everybody should be cheering up everybody that just tries to do something.'
Andrés, who founded The World Central Kitchen, explained that he and Markle - along with Prince Harry have collaborated on multiple philanthropic projects over the years.
This includes the rebuilding of a kitchen in Dominica that serves children during the school year and operates as an emergency relief hub during hurricane season.
'Quite frankly, very proud of them and very proud to call them friends,' he said.
Despite the Duchess of Sussex being met with scathing reviews following the launch of her new lifestyle project, Andrés remains steadfast in his support
And while the chef didn't reveal any upcoming collaborations with Markle, he hinted at the possibility of appearing on one of her shows someday.
'I think she has plenty of support, but I will not be surprised if one day you see me in one of her shows,' Andrés said.
Andrés himself has no shortage of things to promote - his new cookbook Change the Recipe hit shelves recently and is already climbing the bestseller charts.
He also teased a new documentary on Netflix and a cooking show with Martha Stewart on NBC, both debuting April 28.
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