Meghan Markle faced challenges in hiring household staff for her Montecito mansion, with sources alleging her interview demeanor made the process difficult, according to a report by Page Six.
An insider claimed that many housekeepers in the affluent Santa Barbara community were reluctant to work for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The source alleged that Markle conducted interviews herself and could come across as "really snobbish and rude," which reportedly offended potential employees and led to negative word-of-mouth.
This alleged reputation among local housekeepers eventually became a recurring topic of conversation in the Montecito area. "It got to the point where people would joke that all the maids in Montecito hated them," the insider told Page Six.
The report also noted that in June 2025, four staffers reportedly left the couple's team. Kyle Boulia, their Los Angeles-based deputy press secretary, and Charlie Gipson, their UK press officer, were among those who departed. Additionally, two members of their private staff also reportedly left their roles in recent weeks.
During her time as a working royal in the U.K., Markle faced accusations of bullying from palace aides. The Palace initiated an investigation into these claims, but its findings were never publicly released, and Markle denied the allegations.
Markle and Prince Harry have resided in Montecito since 2020, following their decision to step back as senior members of the British royal family. While the area is home to other celebrities, a local resident told Page Six that Harry and Meghan's presence brought an unusual level of media attention to the typically quiet community. Some neighbors reportedly expressed concerns about the increased spotlight when the couple initially moved to the area.
Page Six confirmed that Prince Harry and Markle are planning to return to the U.K. with their children, Archie and Lilibet, for an extended period later this month. This move comes six years after their departure from royal life, an event widely known as "Megxit." The couple is expected to remain non-working members of the royal family and will continue their business ventures while in Britain.