Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s move to Montecito, California, following their departure from royal duties has not been without its challenges.
Lady Colin Campbell, a royal commentator known as Lady C, has made claims that the couple has faced difficulties in integrating with their affluent neighbors in the upscale neighborhood.
The couple’s billionaire next-door neighbor recently sold his lavish $19 million mansion, becoming the latest in a string of wealthy Montecito residents to depart since the arrival of the ex-royals.
Upon relocating to the U.S. after stepping down from their royal roles, Prince Harry and Meghan settled in Montecito, a luxurious community along the Californian coastline renowned as a haven for celebrities.
Despite reports indicating that the Sussexes had initially purchased their home for just over £10 million, its value surged to over £100 million within nine months.
However, Lady C’s insights shared on her YouTube channel suggest that the couple has encountered resistance from some of their affluent neighbors.
Lady C recounted conversations she had with prominent figures in London who also own properties in Montecito, revealing a prevailing sentiment of disdain towards Meghan among the residents.
According to Lady C, the consensus seems to be that “everybody in Montecito hates them,” particularly focusing on Meghan, while Prince Harry is perceived as inconsequential.
The reluctance of billionaires in the area to associate with the couple has further compounded their challenges in assimilating into the community.
The recent sale of the $19 million mansion owned by the Sussexes’ billionaire neighbor, Peter Sperling, adds to the narrative of discontent surrounding the couple in Montecito.
Sperling, a scion of the University of Phoenix founder and one of the wealthiest Americans, offloaded his opulent seven-bedroom, 13-bathroom estate in April, following another property sale for $16.3 million earlier in the year.
This trend of affluent residents leaving the neighborhood since Meghan and Harry’s arrival includes actor Rob Lowe, who departed in September the previous year.
As Meghan and Harry navigate their post-royal life, they have ventured into new endeavors, embracing their celebrity status.
A recent visit to New York, where they were hosted by the city’s mayor, was swiftly followed by their announcement as impact partners at a sustainable investment firm.
However, their expanding commitments have raised concerns among observers that the couple may be stretching themselves too thin, potentially unsettling their associates.
Amidst these developments, Meghan has reengaged with U.S. politics, advocating for paid parental leave across America through a letter addressed to the U.S. Congress under her formal title, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex.
This move has sparked speculation about Meghan’s potential political aspirations, hinting at a divergence from a return to royal duties in the foreseeable future.
The couple’s evolving public roles and interactions continue to draw attention and scrutiny as they navigate the complexities of their post-royal life.
