Meghan Markle and Prince Harry seem to be feeling the heat from their new neighbors in Montecito.
A recent comment from a local resident has put the couple under the spotlight, and it’s not exactly flattering.
As they settle into their new life away from royal duties, the reception from the community appears to be less than welcoming.
According to an article by the Express, a local man expressed his shock upon learning that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had moved into their typically quiet neighborhood.
Frank McGinty, a U.S. Navy veteran, voiced his surprise at the couple’s choice of residence, remarking on the area’s usual demographic of older residents.
His pointed remark, “It’s where the elephants come to die,” has become a talking point, hinting at the couple’s perceived decline in popularity since leaving royal life.
The context is crucial here.
After stepping back from royal duties, Meghan and Harry have faced numerous challenges.
Their various projects have struggled to gain traction, and public sentiment seems to be shifting against them.
If we were to rephrase McGinty’s comment, it might read: “It’s where the ex-royals come to fade away.”
In an interview with the Montecito Journal, McGinty shared his experience of trying to connect with his new neighbors, only to be met with a wall of security.
He noted that when he moved in, he made it a point to introduce himself to everyone.
“I knocked on every door and said, ‘Hi, I’m Steph,’” he recalled, contrasting his friendly approach with the Sussexes’ apparent isolation from the community.
What could possibly be behind their reluctance to engage?
Could it be a fear of facing a less-than-warm reception?
Many residents in Montecito are exceedingly wealthy, and some might view the Sussexes as less affluent by comparison.
It raises the question: do you need to be a celebrity like Oprah Winfrey or Ellen DeGeneres to fit in around there?
The sentiment among other Montecito residents echoes McGinty’s feelings.
Richard Minyard expressed his disappointment at not seeing Meghan and Harry out in the community, stating that locals were eager for their presence.
Meanwhile, Barry Meyer shared his frustrations with the couple’s seemingly erratic appearances, noting that despite living in a high-end area, they remain largely absent from local life.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of Meghan, Minyard humorously suggested that locals might have better luck spotting her if they pointed out popular hangout spots.
However, the general sentiment remains one of irritation.
The drama that seems to follow the Sussexes isn’t winning them any favors among their new neighbors.
The growing discontent hints at a deeper issue—Montecito residents appear to be yearning for a sense of normalcy that the couple’s celebrity status disrupts.
As one neighbor aptly put it, they hope Meghan and Harry will eventually blend into the background, much like the metaphorical elephants in McGinty’s remark.
Looking ahead, the sustainability of Meghan and Harry’s lifestyle in Montecito raises questions.
Based on insights from a French documentary, maintaining their lavish home comes with a hefty price tag.
Given their current trajectory, financial strains could force them to reconsider their living situation in the years to come.
If the couple does find themselves needing to relocate due to financial constraints, it’s likely that the community will breathe a sigh of relief.
For now, the tension between the Sussexes and their Montecito neighbors continues to unfold, with many watching closely to see how this chapter of their lives will play out.