Harry and Meghan's California neighbors shrug
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are moving back to the UK after six years in Montecito. Their California neighbors react with indifference, reflecting the couple's fading celebrity status.
Background
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and moved to Montecito, California, seeking privacy and freedom. They have now decided to return to the UK with their children, Archie and Lilibet, after reports of a short-lived Hollywood reign. The news has been met with a shrug from their neighbors, who are used to celebrity residents.
How it unfolded
- 2020Harry and Meghan move to Montecito, California, after stepping back from royal duties.
- Aug 20, 2026Reports emerge that the couple plans to return to the UK with their children for an extended period.
- Aug 20, 2026TMZ confirms they are keeping their Montecito home and plan to return.
- Aug 21, 2026Neighbors and local residents react with indifference to the departure, as covered by The Guardian and BBC.
Who’s saying what
- Neighbors
- Residents in Montecito are largely indifferent, noting that the town is used to celebrity residents and the departure is not a big deal.
- Royal Watcher
- Journalist Elizabeth Holmes expressed surprise, saying it felt like the Sussexes were settling into their California life.
- Official
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham called the security arrangements a private matter and wished them well.
Still unverified
Reports of the move are based on unnamed sources from People and The Telegraph; the couple has not officially confirmed. Details about security arrangements and King Charles's offer of royal property are unconfirmed.