Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Face a Cool Reception in Montecito

Since relocating to the celebrity-packed enclave of Montecito in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have found themselves at the center of mixed feelings among local residents.

The couple, who stepped back from royal duties, now reside in an expansive home that features a private gym, cinema, spa, and even a playground for their two children, Archie and Lilibet.

However, the warm welcome they might have hoped for seems to be fading fast.

Katie, a retired university lecturer, shared her observations about the Sussexes' presence in the neighborhood.

She noted that while some locals are intrigued by the couple, others feel differently.

“A lot of people think, yeah, fun,” she said, but added that many perceive them as having a bit of an attitude.

It appears that the Sussexes are not universally adored in their new community.

Walking alongside Katie, Judy expressed her indifference toward the couple.

She admitted that while some of her acquaintances are curious about Harry and Meghan, she personally has no desire to keep up with their lives.

This sentiment reflects a growing divide among the residents, some of whom are keenly interested in their famous neighbors, while others wish to maintain their distance.

Dave Kanerek, a local sports sales representative, echoed this sentiment.

He mentioned that he hasn't heard much about the couple going about their daily lives in Montecito.

This lack of buzz might suggest that the Sussexes' celebrity status isn't translating into a close-knit connection with their neighbors.

The discontent doesn't end there.

One resident expressed frustration over Meghan's impact on what was once a peaceful California town.

“We hate what she's done,” they lamented, pointing to a recent uptick in crime attributed to the attention surrounding the couple.

The resident claimed that Meghan's high-profile lifestyle, including interviews and documentaries, has drawn unwanted attention and crime to the area.

This individual highlighted the irony of Meghan frequently reaching out to the sheriff's office regarding stalkers and paparazzi, noting that the very publicity she generates seems to be the cause of her woes.

“She makes money and sticks us with the security bills,” they stated, pleading for her to leave.

The desire for privacy among long-time residents is palpable, especially given their history of living in a quiet, celebrity-friendly neighborhood.

Reports indicate that several celebrities have already chosen to sell their homes since the Sussexes moved in, signaling a significant shift in the community's dynamic.

Allegedly, at least three A-listers have left the area, with one property being sold to a trust, potentially leaving it vacant indefinitely.

Contrary to expectations that Harry and Meghan's arrival would attract more buyers to Montecito, it seems that the opposite is true.

A source revealed that the rush of residents wanting to leave is a “real black eye” for the couple, suggesting that their image has taken a hit.

Instead of being seen as classy, they are increasingly perceived as tacky.

Moreover, insiders claim that the actions of Prince Harry and Meghan are casting a shadow over their reputation.

Their perceived behavior has led many to view them as “crybaby, money-grubbing, snooty show-offs.” This negative perception has even affected their relationships with wealthy individuals who typically admire royalty.

As the Sussexes navigate their new life away from royal duties, the reality of their situation in Montecito raises questions about celebrity culture and community dynamics.

The stark contrast between the couple's glamorous lifestyle and the desires of their neighbors for peace and privacy could shape their future in this star-studded locale.