Montecito shrugs as Harry and Meghan plan extended UK return
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are moving back to Britain for an extended stay, enrolling Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, in UK schools this September. In Montecito, California, neighbors largely shrugged—even as Prince William, Kate Middleton and royal commentators warn the surprise return threatens a fragile truce and could fuel a rival court.
Key Takeaways
- Montecito residents told The New York Times the Sussex departure spread at a leisurely pace, with many reacting with indifference.
- Archie and Lilibet are enrolled in British schools for September as the family prepares an extended UK stay while keeping their California home.
- Vanity Fair reports Prince William and Kate Middleton are “very concerned” about a possible rival court.
- The Telegraph argues the timing is “blithely selfish” and blindsided King Charles, who was told only on Sunday.
- The couple will remain non-working royals six years after stepping back from duties and relocating to Montecito.
Why Are Montecito Neighbors Shrugging at Harry and Meghan’s Departure?
When Fleet Street erupted over the Sussexes’ UK return, Montecito barely noticed, according to reporting in The New York Times. Author Ann Louise Bardach said local news covered a bank robber and a euthanised capybara, but “not one word” about the royals.
Interviewees echoed that mood. Ryan Souza, 21, said, “If they prefer it there, that’s for them.” Neighbor Gina Pennino, 72, who lives near their Riven Rock estate, had “no idea they were moving.” Longtime resident Buz Bonsall had one word: “Nothing.”
Others recalled security more than civic ties, including awkward gate moments or an April visit to Little Mountain restaurant where Harry and Meghan swept past waiting diners. Supervisor Roy Lee said he was sad to see them go, while bike-shop owner Jennifer Blevins wished the family happiness “wherever they land.”
What Does the Sussexes’ UK Return Mean for William and Kate?
Vanity Fair cites a royal insider saying William and Kate are “very concerned” about Harry and Meghan’s return and the prospect of a rival court. The outlet notes The New York Times reported Wednesday that the Duke and Duchess would move back with Archie and Lilibet, six years after leaving Montecito amid allegations of racism and press hostility.
Separate ocean distance had contained the brothers’ feud, Allison Pearson wrote in The Telegraph. Now the Waleses, praised for steadying the monarchy through Megxit and Catherine’s cancer treatment, face renewed distraction. Track more royal and streaming crossover news in our Streaming & TV Alerts hub.
Why Are Royal Commentators Calling the Move Selfish?
Pearson called Wednesday’s announcement “typical Sussex melodrama, both blithely selfish and utterly ruthless,” warning it heralds “intense danger for the monarchy.” She said the couple gave no hint at July’s Highgrove tea; Charles was blindsided and told only on Sunday despite months of school and housing planning.
Biographer Tom Bower warned the Sussexes are “manipulative to the highest degree.” Pearson added Charles may want reconciliation, but William should not be pressed to forgive attacks on his family, including coverage during Catherine’s cancer treatment.