When reports surfaced that Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, were preparing to return to the UK, British newspapers widely covered the story. The Telegraph, known for its measured tone, proudly declared the news an "exclusive", while The Sun sensationalized it with "Megxit shock".
However, in Montecito, California, where the couple has resided since 2020, news of their potential departure circulated at the area's typical slow and relaxed pace.
Local author and journalist Ann Louise Bardach noted she "didn't see a single line" about the royal couple's potential move while browsing news sites. Instead, she read about a bank robber manhunt and the Santa Barbara Zoo euthanizing a capybara.
"I'm not saying this isn't big news," she remarked. "But look at who their neighbors are. It's Oprah."
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Prince Harry and Meghan in London, England, 3/6/2022. Photo: Reuters |
Montecito, their chosen residence, lies about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The area is known for its many luxury villas owned by California's artists and wealthy residents.
Their multi-million dollar estate is situated in a secluded area characterized by tall hedges and gated driveways. Among their affluent neighbors are Jeff Bridges, Rob Lowe, Gwyneth Paltrow, Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry, and Oprah Winfrey.
Interviews conducted in Montecito and the nearby Santa Barbara area revealed widespread indifference among many locals.
"If they prefer to live there, that's their choice," commented Ryan Souza, 21, a Wake Forest University student from Montecito.
Buz Bonsall, 76, a long-time resident who has lived in the neighborhood since high school, said he was aware of the couple's news and had occasionally seen them. Asked his thoughts on their potential move, he simply replied, "Nothing."
Gina Pennino, 72, who lives near the couple's gated Riven Rock estate, said she "had no idea the couple was about to move," despite often seeing them while walking her dog.
"We don't really know them," Pennino shared. "They wave. They drive. They close their gates."
Other residents noted that Harry and Meghan were more memorable for their stringent security measures than for community involvement. Last April, when a black SUV pulled up to Montecito's trendy Little Mountain restaurant, the couple and their security detail bypassed waiting diners to enter a private dining room.
Student Souza suggested that while England, a land of monarchy, might be a suitable destination for Harry and Meghan, he considers California the ideal place to live.
"The weather here is superb," Souza added.
