Residents of Montecito, California, have reacted with indifference to the announcement that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are leaving the celebrity-studded community. Neighbors and local business owners stated that the couple did not assimilate into the community and their departure will not significantly impact the town.
"We don't really give a crap," said Vanessa Lynn, manager of a local women's boutique. "We don't care. This used to be a nice sleepy little town, but when Harry and Meghan arrived, a bunch of people would come in hoping to see them. But Harry and Meghan didn't really assimilate into the community. We rarely saw them walking down the street or shopping in town. Visitors were usually disappointed."
Another resident, Debbie, echoed this sentiment, adding, "They never really went out and about anywhere. We all hoped they would support local shops and patronize local restaurants, but that rarely happened."
Even fellow celebrity resident Gwyneth Paltrow is reportedly relieved by the Sussexes' departure. According to an insider, Paltrow did not like being compared to Meghan and her brand, Goop, with Meghan's venture, As Ever. However, the source also stated that Paltrow wishes them well and does not want to be pitted against another woman.
"There were rumblings earlier this year in the Hollywood crowd that Meghan and Harry were going back to England," a source close to Paltrow told the Daily Mail. "They had done what they could do with the streamers [Netflix and Spotify]. There was a lot of chatter they felt like they did the Montecito thing and were done. So not much of a shock. Gwyneth and her circle think it's great because now Meghan and Harry can be closer to his family."
Other Montecito residents expressed irritation at what they perceived as the Sussexes' constant overshadowing of other celebrities in the area. "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," a source said.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle purchased their Montecito home in June 2020 for $14.65 million. Online property estimates now place the home's value significantly higher. Montecito estate agent Cathy O'Neill believes the couple's departure will not affect property values, noting that Oprah Winfrey's move to the town previously put it on the map.
Longtime resident Julie Groen questioned if the couple regretted their move to California, suggesting they may have found the grass was not greener. "Their departure won't matter to Montecito at all. Nothing will change here, life will go on."
Carlos, who was waiting outside a local restaurant, agreed, stating, "We won't miss them. This place is crawling with celebrities."
Many residents like saleswoman Stephanie Taylor were not surprised by the move, citing cultural differences and potential isolation for Prince Harry.
Marcie Gudebski, dining outside a local store where Meghan occasionally shops, commented, "I guess it didn't work out the way she planned. Their leaving won't make a bit of difference to the town. And anyway, I'm Team William and Kate."
Indifference was a common theme. Medical technician Joyce Zimmer stated plainly, "I really don't care if they leave or stay." Others noted that while Prince Harry seemed friendly, Meghan was perceived as less approachable.
Some, like self-professed Royal Family fan Meagan Stirling, expressed disappointment at never having the chance to meet the couple. "I always hoped to run into them hiking and have a nice conversation, but that hasn't happened and now probably never will," Stirling said.
However, some local businesses that occasionally served the couple, such as Lucky's Steakhouse and Little Mountain restaurant, expressed that they would miss their presence.
Career and leadership coach Khewna Dawar speculated that the couple might regret leaving Montecito's private and respectful environment. "It's an astonishingly private, quiet and reclusive community, and people respect their privacy. They'll miss that once they've gone."