Harry and Meghan Get Brutal Send-Off From Montecito Neighbors as They Prepare For UK Move
Reportedly, a notable Hollywood A-lister is said to be very much pleased about Markle's upcoming exit.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly looking to start a new chapter in their lives. The news of their relocation plans left everyone surprised. The couple is said to be setting up base in the UK, with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, starting school in the country in September. It is believed that they will reside on the outskirts of London in a non-royal residence. While the royal family has yet to comment on the news, the Duke and Duchess' Montecito neighbors have already expressed relief over the move.
Vanessa Lynn, a boutique manager in Montecito, stated that the town has lost its peaceful charm since the arrival of the Sussexes. She went on to remark that the couple did not integrate into the community and were rarely seen in town or participating in local activities, GB News reported. "They never really went out and about anywhere," another local named Debbie shared. "We all hoped they would support local shops and patronize local restaurants, but that rarely happened." Reportedly, a Hollywood A-lister, Gwyneth Paltrow, is also very pleased about Markle's upcoming departure. "Gwyneth didn't like being compared to Meghan, so she is glad she is moving out of Montecito," a source revealed. "Gwyneth also did not like all the comparisons with Meghan's brand and her brand Goop; it was like enough already! But she wishes them well with their new life."
Paltrow had stated that she and the Duchess are not close, but a source noted there is no actual conflict; the Iron Man actress admires Markle and recognizes her challenges. However, she disapproved of comparisons between women, labeling them as "petty and mean." Meanwhile, other affluent neighbors are said to be relieved. "Everything in Montecito was about Harry and Meghan this, Harry and Meghan that, and it got tiring, especially for the other stars who live there," one source said. Jennifer, another resident, shared her experiences about Markle with The Sun, stating she served her when she worked at a local store. She criticized the Duchess for lacking originality and claimed that ideas for her Netflix show came from others. Jennifer further labeled Markle as a "laughing stock" in the community. "Even the ideas for them that make up the As Ever range were taken from other people in the town," she argued.
"I’m glad they’re leaving. Good riddance," a staff member from the Montecito Country Mart reacted. The staff member further revealed that the Duchess's comment about enjoying champagne at Butterfly Beach frustrated locals since beach drinking is illegal, resulting in increased crowds and parking issues. While the town did welcome them, some residents felt disconnected from the pair. "This town has everything for them, and they’ve been here several years and have friends and other famous people. We sold Harry’s book here, and it was a decent seller, but we never knew where to stock it- either by local writer or his surname- but we could never figure out what his surname is," Mary Sheldon, Tecolote bookstore owner, concluded.
