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We’ll never be royals: the California town where Prince Harry and Meghan lived says goodbye
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- Montecito, California, gained global attention as the residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after their split from Buckingham Palace, but their planned return to the UK may signal an end to the town's spotlight on the couple.
- The affluent community remains a celebrity haven, home to figures like Oprah and Gwyneth Paltrow, and has embraced the Sussexes despite occasional neighbor annoyance over media presence.
- Residents expressed mixed reactions to the couple’s departure, ranging from hope for royal reconciliation to relief from media intrusion, with some appreciating their local support and others critical of the town’s increasing wealth.
- Montecito tourism officials praised Harry and Meghan for boosting local businesses and showcased the area in Meghan’s Netflix show, while the couple reportedly intend to retain their Montecito estate despite relocating.
