Local Residents Reportedly “Fed Up” with Royal Couple’s Low Profile in the Community
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Montecito neighbours are reportedly growing frustrated with the couple’s presence, expressing discontent and eagerness for their departure from the upscale Californian neighbourhood.
Since relocating to their £12 million mansion in 2020 after stepping down as working royals, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have kept a low profile, which has not gone unnoticed by their neighbours. One anonymous resident shared their dissatisfaction, telling the Montecito Journal that they “cannot wait for her [Meghan] to go.”
Frank McGinity, a navy veteran living next door to the couple, recounted a disappointing interaction when he tried to share films he made about the local history. “The gate guy turned me away and wouldn’t take the film, just saying ‘they’re not interested,’” the 88-year-old recalled in his memoir Get Off Your Street. McGinity also expressed confusion over their choice to live in the Riven Rock estate, which is typically home to an older demographic. “We don’t see them very much around here,” he added.
Local columnist Richard Mineard noted that the couple is rarely seen engaging with the community. “It’s a very wealthy area, and many residents contribute significantly to cultural organisations and charities, but we don’t see them much,” Mineard explained. He mentioned that while Harry has occasionally been spotted cycling or going out for lunch, Meghan has only been seen “moping around” on rare shopping or lunch outings.
Despite the allure of having a Duke and Duchess as neighbours, the community appears to be frustrated with the couple’s reserved presence, leaving some residents disappointed by their lack of involvement.
