Prince Harry And Meghan’s Montecito Neighbors’ Unexpected Reaction To Their UK Relocation Revealed
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to return to the UK with their children has sparked plenty of discussion, but the reaction from some of their Montecito neighbors has been particularly surprising.
As the Sussexes prepare for a major new chapter in the duke’s home country, some locals reportedly believe their departure could bring back the quiet atmosphere the California community was known for.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle moved to Montecito after stepping away from royal duties in 2020 and have spent the past several years building a life in California.
Some Montecito residents appear relieved by the news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to return to the UK, with one local saying the couple’s departure could bring back some of the peace the area was known for.
The resident told Page Six that there were concerns when the Sussexes first arrived because of the intense attention surrounding them and the Royal Family.
“There had already been so much negative press and attention surrounding them and the royal family, and I think people worried about what kind of spotlight that could bring to such a quiet community,” the source explained.
Now that Harry and Meghan are preparing to return to the UK, the residents seem overjoyed and relieved.
The source noted, “Montecito is a very private, peaceful place, and I think a lot of people here will be happy to see things go back to being a little quieter.”
The resident also clarified that the reaction did not necessarily represent the entire community, but rather their own views and those of residents they had spoken with.
The Sussexes’ Presence Seemingly Disrupted The Peaceful Neighborhood
3Harry and Meghan’s arrival in Montecito appears to have brought a level of media attention that some residents felt was unusual for the otherwise secluded community.
According to the local resident, the Sussexes attracted a different kind of spotlight compared with other famous residents in the area, including Oprah Winfrey and Rob Lowe.
Another neighbor was even more direct when asked about the couple’s impending move, simply responding, “Good riddance!”
The resident claimed that some locals are “happy” to see the Sussexes leave, alleging that the couple would ask friends and acquaintances for “grandiose favors” because of their royal titles without giving much back to either those individuals or the wider Montecito community.
The source went on to describe the local mood bluntly, saying, “The town is exhausted by them, the entitlement and the never-ending drama.”
Prince Harry And Meghan Might Maintain Their Montecito Estate
3Despite preparing to spend more time in Britain, Harry and Meghan are not immediately abandoning their California life. Their Montecito estate, where they have lived since 2020, is expected to remain part of their property portfolio.
As much as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to spend considerably more time in the UK, the couple does not appear ready to completely leave their California life behind.
Sources told Page Six that the Sussexes plan to hold on to their $14.5 million Montecito estate while making Britain their main focus for the foreseeable future.
The nine-bedroom, 16-bathroom property features extensive grounds, including a tennis court, rose garden, tea house and children’s playhouse, making it a substantial family home.
However, speculation about the mansion’s future has already begun. A source in the Santa Barbara luxury real estate market told the New York Post there “have been rumblings” about the royal couple’s home being placed on the market.
The Sussexes’ UK Return Could Reunite Them With The Royal Family
Harry and Meghan’s return to the UK could give them an opportunity to strengthen their ties with the Royal Family, particularly with King Charles. A royal insider told Page Six, “I know that Charles is a big reason for their return.”
The family had already taken steps toward rebuilding that relationship in July, when Harry, Meghan and their children reunited with Charles at Highgrove House. It was the first time in four years that the King had seen their kids, Archie and Lilibet.
Their move could also help the children build stronger relationships with relatives and friends in Britain. A source noted that “they have so many friends and family in the UK whom they remain so close to.”
Archie and Lilibet are also expected to attend school there during the family’s stay.
Meghan Markle Is Likely To Make An Acting Comeback
Meghan’s return to the UK could mean a fresh chapter in her acting career, with entertainment sources telling news.com.au that the Duchess of Sussex has been offered a role in an upcoming UK-based project.
Before meeting her husband Harry, Meghan had established herself in Hollywood, gaining recognition as Rachel Zane on “Suits.” She left the series in 2017 after her relationship with Harry became public, later moving to the UK to begin life as a working royal.
Reflecting on the decision, she said, “I don’t see it as giving anything up; I just see it as a change. It’s a new challenge.”
Meghan has since shown signs of returning to entertainment, including a cameo as herself in Amazon MGM’s “Close Personal Friends.”
A source who saw her on set described her to People Magazine as “very relaxed and happy” and “very sweet and down-to-earth.”
However, her potential return to acting in the UK may have already hit a major roadblock. Sources shared with former Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Tina Brown that Meghan’s alleged casting in the hit series “The Gentlemen” was ultimately withdrawn following intense backlash.
