Montecito Journal, the local newspaper of Megan’s residence, has thrown some shade at the Duchess.
In their recent article recapping the 1805 Live event, the newspaper featured a photo of Prince Harry front and center, while Megan was cropped in half.
The article highlighted the organization’s royal appointment and its efforts to support first responders, raising over a million dollars.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended the event in Carolina Herrera outfits, following their participation in the Invictus Games for disabled veterans in Germany.
They presented the heart of the community awards to Kevin Costner, Adam McCaig, and Alexa Fullerton, recognizing their contributions to the community.
In a photo used for the article, they were seen standing alongside Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig and Adam McCaig.
However, it is worth noting that the top photo description specifically named the Fire Chief and the honoree, leaving out the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
This could be seen as a deliberate move by the journal to undermine their presence.
Furthermore, the article referred to Megan as “Prince Harry’s actress wife,” which carries negative connotations and diminishes her individual identity.
The Montecito Journal’s choice of photo, featuring Harry’s orange hand, seemed to be another intentional dig at the couple.
The journal’s deliberate omission of Megan’s name and the use of “actress wife” instead of her actual title further fueled the controversy.
It is evident that the author understands narcissism and aimed to provoke a reaction from Megan.
The article also took a subtle jab at Megan’s wealth, mentioning the value of Kevin Costner’s estate in comparison to the undisclosed worth of the Markle residence.
This remark insinuated that Megan’s financial status is inferior, adding to the disdain some residents of Montecito already have towards her.
She is perceived as a crass and tacky social climber in the community.
This incident is not the first time Megan has faced controversy related to her behavior.
During the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany, she received criticism for attempting to kiss a female attendee on the cheek without seeking consent.
This action was unsettling and frightening for the woman, who had previously experienced assault and harassment.
During the 1805 Live event, the couple was also observed blocking Katy Perry’s parents and actively seeking photo opportunities.
Megan even approached Franciscan friar Larry Gosling of St. Barbara Parish for intimate photos.
However, Father Gosling, bound by celibacy, reminded Megan to maintain a respectful distance and declined her invitation to their wedding vow renewal next year.
This gesture was seen as offensive and lacking in respect towards the religious boundaries of the Catholic Church.
As the Montecito Journal continues to make headlines with its subtle jabs and intentional omissions, it is clear that Megan’s presence in the community is met with mixed reactions.
While some appreciate her philanthropic efforts, others view her as an outsider and question her intentions.
The Duchess will undoubtedly be affected by the shade thrown her way, further fueling the ongoing controversy surrounding her.