Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have faced increasing criticism from some locals in Montecito, California, since moving to the area in 2020. Neighbors have referred to Meghan as “the starlet” and described the couple as “local villains,” blaming their presence for the shift in the town’s once-quiet atmosphere. Some residents complain about the rise in housing prices, the influx of visitors, and the challenges of enjoying local amenities, such as parking near popular trails.
The couple’s high profile and ongoing public projects, like Meghan’s American Riviera Orchard, have also drawn negative attention, with critics accusing Meghan of using her brand for personal profit. The royal couple’s public behavior has also sparked disapproval, with some locals seeing them as hypocritical for seeking privacy while continuing to draw media attention.
Despite the criticism, a source close to the couple describes them as deeply in love, with Harry being particularly protective of Meghan in public. However, they claim that Meghan’s presence sometimes shifts the energy, creating what some view as a “circus” atmosphere. Regardless, it’s a very unfortunate situation at this point in time so we will have to wait and see what future updates will be given.
