In the elite California neighborhood where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside, attitudes toward them are rapidly changing. While the couple initially tried to integrate into the closed community, now even their closest neighbors prefer to keep their distance, expressing open discontent.
From Hollywood Dream to Neighborly Alienation
Megan Markle and Prince Harry's life in the United States began like a true Hollywood fairy tale: they stepped back from royal duties, moved to sunny California to build a new, independent life. However, just a few years later, troubling rumors and unpleasant gossip are increasingly surrounding this couple. Now, it turns out that not only influential figures in Hollywood are turning away from the Sussexes, but also their own neighbors.
Recently, it became known that in Montecito, where Harry and Megan settled in 2020, they are being treated with increasing coolness. Behind the outward politeness lies a clear desire to distance themselves from the duke and duchess.
"They Avoid Them"
"They avoid them. No one wants to be seen with them," one local resident candidly states.
According to insiders, the reasons for such an attitude have been building up for several months. The couple's reputation has recently been put to serious tests: critical publications in the press, strained relations with business partners, and constant disputes surrounding their public statements create a rather ambiguous backdrop around them. One of the latest reasons for discussion was an article claiming that Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos allegedly preferred not to communicate with Megan without lawyers present. However, representatives from both sides denied these claims, calling them untrue.
Nevertheless, as sources note, the coldness from neighbors did not arise suddenly—it has been gradually increasing.
"Greedy People Who Only Want Money"
"It's not about hate. It's just the growing realization that they are greedy people who only want money, completely unaware of themselves. Everyone is tired of them."
At the same time, the couple's entourage insists otherwise. Those close to the Sussexes claim that Megan and Harry maintain warm relations with the residents of the area, and they themselves are genuinely attached to their home and strive to lead a as private a life as possible.
Let us remind you that the mansion in Montecito, worth nearly $15 million, was purchased by the couple shortly after moving to the U.S. At that time, it was emphasized that they chose a secluded place specifically for peace and security, hoping for mutual respect from their neighbors. And initially, everything indeed went well.
The Closed Community of Montecito
This area is home to many celebrities—from Oprah Winfrey to Katy Perry, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jennifer Aniston. The community has long been known for its exclusivity and unwritten rules—privacy is valued here, and unnecessary noise is unwelcome.
In the early years after the Sussexes' move, they were met with interest and even sympathy. For example, Sharon Stone noted that the couple gives the impression of people who want to become part of the community rather than use it for status. However, over time, this image began to crack. Megan's public activity, the launch of new commercial projects, and regular news stories surrounding the family began to irritate some local residents. A recent post by Markle, where she showcased herself with her daughter in the garden while promoting luxury goods from her brand, only intensified discussions about the commercialization of personal life.
Additional tension is added by rather sharp remarks from neighbors. For instance, one resident previously noted that Megan hardly participates in community life and rarely appears in public, making it difficult to perceive her as a full-fledged part of the local circle. At the same time, he describes Harry as more open, but his presence in public life remains minimal.
