Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have reportedly become local pariahs in the upscale California town they moved to after stepping down from their royal duties. Residents of the tranquil Santa Barbara area blame the Spare author, 40, and Suits alum, 43, for various new issues, such as soaring housing prices and busier streets.
Since their arrival in 2020, the neighborhood has apparently experienced a surge in tourist traffic, according to anonymous locals who spoke to the press. Vanity Fair (VF) reported that many residents view the Duke and Duchess of Sussex (who share son Prince Archie, 5, and daughter Princess Lilibet, 3) as community outcasts.
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Vanity Fair Reports Prince Harry & Meghan Markle’s Neighbors Called Them Them 'Entitled' And 'Disingenuous'
Markle's latest venture, American Riviera Orchard, is also based in Montecito, CA, which was once dubbed the "American Riviera" by a Southern Pacific Company book in 1898.
However, as the outlet noted, that title now reportedly belongs to Santa Barbara. A resident criticized the Archetypes podcast host's relentless efforts to profit from the area, calling her and Harry the most privileged and insincere individuals around.
They noted the irony in the couple fleeing England to escape media scrutiny, only to seek attention in the U.S. As the neighbor of the couple told VF: "It’s such a kind of hucksterism. It’s just finding every way she can to monetize something."
They added: "“I still think they’re the most entitled, disingenuous people on the planet. They moved away from England to get away from the scrutiny of the press, and all they do is try and get in the press in the United States."
However, Sharon Stone Praises The Sussexes Moving To California
Although some residents in the region are unhappy about the Sussexes residing there, Sharon Stone does not share their sentiment. The Casino actress, 66, commended Harry and Markle for their efforts in supporting their community and their generous spirit, especially during the Los Angeles fires.
As the Basic Instinct alum told Marie Claire: "You know, the thing about them that is so great is they didn't come here to live off of our community, they came here to be a part of our community."
Stone added: "My friend said she was sitting in her car and they bicycled across the street and waved at her while she was sitting at the red light. They're a part of our community, they've become a giving, caring, participating part of our community. They're not here to be like 'Would you like to kiss my butt?'"
