Reports coming from Montecito indicate that the neighborhood is increasingly at odds with its high-profile residents, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.
Ever since the couple relocated to their lavish £12 million mansion following their exit from royal duties in 2020, discontent has simmered among some of their neighbors.
Residents, including one anonymous voice, have openly conveyed their impatience with the couple, revealing they “can’t wait for her [Meghan] to leave.” The announcement from this unnamed local reflects a broader sentiment among those residing in the upscale community.
Frank McGinity, a nearby resident and navy veteran, shared a personal anecdote that highlights the rift.
He attempted a friendly gesture by offering some historical films about the local area, thinking it would pique their interest.
Instead, he found himself turned away at the gates by security.
“The gate guy just said, ‘they’re not interested,’” McGinity recounted, surprised by the snub as mentioned in his memoir, Get Off Your Street.
In addition to McGinity’s experience, this sentiment is echoed by Richard Mineard, a local columnist.
He remarked that Harry and Meghan are rarely seen participating in community life.
“They live quite splendidly, and the area is affluent,” he noted while acknowledging the residents’ eagerness to welcome the Duke and Duchess into local activities.
Harry has been spotted on occasion biking or taking casual strolls, while Meghan has made a few appearances for shopping or lunch gatherings.
Yet, the community feels stifled by a lack of interaction from the couple, creating a palpable sense of frustration.
Furthermore, Barry Maher, another local resident with a background in PR, noted that the couple’s celebrity lifestyle seems to overshadow any potential connections within the community.
He expressed how the locals appreciate their wealth but wish for more engagement from the royals.
Given their glamorous reputation, some residents admit a certain curiosity about the couple’s lives.
Yet, there’s also a notion that a distinct “royal bubble” separates them from the day-to-day experiences of their neighbors.
Maher reflected on the perception that the story of Harry and Meghan has become monotonous for many.
As the couple approaches a big milestone with Harry’s 40th birthday around the corner, whispers have emerged regarding their future in Montecito.
Rumors suggest they may be contemplating a move to a less expensive residence in Malibu, adding to the speculation about their attachment to the area.
A source disclosed that the couple is viewing properties around Malibu, but local observers remain skeptical, given their limited presence at their current home.
“It’s tough to say if they’re truly integrated here when they hardly ever appear,” one resident shared.
Details from insiders hint that Harry once showed interest in relocating to New York City, a choice that could potentially bridge connections with family across the pond.
The contrasting views of living in Malibu versus New York City echo the complexities of their public and personal lives.
While Meghan seems focused on fortified connections in the Hollywood realm, it’s apparent that her career ambitions weigh heavily in their choices.
She reportedly travels regularly for meetings, alluding to her aspirations in the industry.
Yet, compromises appear to be on the horizon as the pair navigates their life in the spotlight.
Rumors suggest the couple may decide to settle down for now in California but remain open to new adventures in the future, including possible roots in New York.
As neighborhood sentiments oscillate from admiration to exasperation, the couple certainly embodies a modern fairy tale tinged with the challenges of public life.
The saga of Harry and Meghan continues to unfold, leaving neighbors to wonder just how long their royal story will last in the serene streets of Montecito.
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